travel advisory for hawaii big island volcano

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

•   Facebook
•   Twitter
•   Linkedin
•   Digg
•   Reddit
•   Pinterest
•   Email

Latest Earthquakes |    Chat Share Social Media  

Kīlauea Volcanic Activity Notice—middle East Rift Zone eruption resumes

The eruption on the middle East Rift Zone of Kīlauea volcano resumed this evening, September 16, at approximately 6 p.m. HST. The eruption is occurring within a closed and remote area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The Volcano Alert Level for ground-based hazards remains at WATCH and the Aviation Color Code remains at ORANGE at this time.

HVO/USGS Volcanic Activity Notice Volcano: Kilauea (VNUM #332010) Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE Issued: Monday, September 16, 2024, 7:46 PM HST Source: Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Notice Number: 2024/H328 Location: N 19 deg 25 min W 155 deg 17 min Elevation: 4091 ft (1247 m) Area: Hawaii Volcanic Activity Summary:

The eruption on the middle East Rift Zone of Kīlauea volcano resumed this evening, September 16, at approximately 6 p.m. HST. The eruption is occurring within a closed and remote area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The Volcano Alert Level for ground-based hazards remains at WATCH and the Aviation Color Code remains at ORANGE at this time. The eruption does not currently pose an immediate threat to human life or infrastructure. Chain of Craters Road, which is closed, is located downslope and downwind of the erupting fissures. Residents of nearby subdivisions may experience volcanic gas emissions (see hazards section below) related to this activity, which may wax and wane over the coming days. 

Current activity is restricted to Kīlaueaʻs middle East Rift Zone. Rates of seismicity and ground deformation beneath the lower East Rift Zone and Southwest Rift Zone remain low. 

A magmatic intrusion has been ongoing in the area near Makaopuhi Crater on the middle East Rift Zone since September 14. A very small eruption occurred west of Nāpau Crater the evening of September 15 and has resumed this evening. The activity is visible in the PWcam: Live Panorama of Pu‘u‘ō‘ō West Flank from Pu‘u‘ō‘ō [PWcam].

HVO is continuing to closely monitor the middle East Rift Zone and in contact with Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and the Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency. Temporary closures have been implemented as a result of this elevated activity; please see the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park website:  https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm .   

Numerous eruptions took place in Kīlauea's middle East Rift Zone during the 1960s–1970s. Most of these eruptions occurred between Hiʻiaka crater and Puʻuʻōʻō and lasted from less than one day to about two weeks, although there were long-lived eruptions at Maunaulu (1969–1971 and 1972–1974) and Puʻuʻōʻō (1983–2018).  A map of past eruptive activity in the upper-to-middle East Rift Zone of Kīlauea is available here: https://www.usgs.gov/maps/kilauea-middle-east-rift-zone-reference-map .  

For more information about the meaning of volcano alert levels and aviation color codes, see https://www.usgs.gov/programs/VHP/volcanic-alert-levels-characterize-conditions-us-volcanoes   Remarks:

Hazard Analysis: 

High level of volcanic gas—primarily water vapor (H 2 O), and sulfur dioxide (SO 2 )—are emitted during eruptions and can have far-reaching effects downwind. As SO 2  is released from, it reacts in the atmosphere to create the visible haze known as vog (volcanic smog) that has been observed downwind of eruptive vents. Vog creates the potential for airborne health hazards to residents and visitors, damages agricultural crops and other plants, and affects livestock. For more information on gas hazards at the summit of Kīlauea, please see:  https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/fs20173017 . Vog information can be found at  https://vog.ivhhn.org .  

Shallow magma movement and eruptions can produce minor to severe ground fractures and subsidence features, which can affect the landscape, human activity, and infrastructure. These ground cracks can continue to widen and offset as magma migration continues, may have unstable overhanging edges, and should be avoided.  

Additional ground cracking and outbreaks of lava around the active fissures are possible at any time, or, existing fissures can be reactivated. Hawaiian lava flows generally advance slowly downslope and can be avoided by people. They can destroy everything in their paths including vegetation and infrastructure—which can cut off road access and utilities. Hazards associated with active or recent lava flows include hot and glassy (sharp) surfaces that can cause serious burns, abrasions, and lacerations upon contact with unprotected or exposed skin; uneven and rough terrain can lead to falls and other injuries; hot temperatures that can cause heat exhaustion or dehydration, or in heavy rain can produce steamy ground-fog that can be acidic, severely limiting visibility and sometimes causing difficulty breathing.  

If new lava flows cover and burn vegetation and soil, they can ignite natural gas pockets in the subsurface, which can cause methane explosions. These explosions can blast lava fragments up to several meters (yards) away and can be hazardous to observers. 

Pele's hair and other lightweight volcanic glass fragments from lava fountains and spattering will fall downwind, dusting the ground within a few hundred meters (yards) of the vent. High winds may waft lighter particles and transport them greater distances downwind. Exposure to these volcanic particles can cause skin and eye irritation. 

Hazards also remain around Kīlauea caldera from Halemaʻumaʻu crater wall instability, ground cracking, and rockfalls that can be enhanced by earthquakes within the area closed to the public. This underscores the extremely hazardous nature of the rim surrounding Halemaʻumaʻu crater, an area that has been closed to the public since early 2008.      For discussion of Kīlauea hazards, please see:  https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/hawaiian-volcano-observatory/hazards .    The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) continues to closely monitor Kīlauea Volcano. 

Please see the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park website for visitor information:  https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm .  Contacts:

[email protected] Next Notice:

Daily updates on all volcanic activity at Kīlauea are issued each morning and posted on out website: https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/status.html You can sign up to receive these messages automatically by visiting https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns2/  

Subscribe to these messages: https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns2/ Summary of volcanic hazards from eruptions: https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/hvo/hazards Recent earthquakes in Hawaiʻi (map and list): https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/hvo Explanation of Volcano Alert Levels and Aviation Color Codes: https://www.usgs.gov/programs/VHP/volcanic-alert-levels-characterize-conditions-us-volcanoes

Get Our News

These items are in the RSS feed format (Really Simple Syndication) based on categories such as topics, locations, and more. You can install and RSS reader browser extension, software, or use a third-party service to receive immediate news updates depending on the feed that you have added. If you click the feed links below, they may look strange because they are simply XML code. An RSS reader can easily read this code and push out a notification to you when something new is posted to our site.

Hawaii News

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory News

Kīlauea News

Natural Hazards News

Hawaii volcano erupting for first time in nearly 40 years; what's the travel impact?

Although the world's largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, continues to erupt on the island of Hawaii for the first time in nearly 40 years, the effect on flights, hotels and cruises thus far has been fairly minimal. Of course, that could change. Here's what you need to know.

Can I travel to Hawaii?

Despite the state's Department of Transportation issuing a travel advisory Monday, warning passengers of flight disruptions out of both Hilo International Airport (ITO) and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA), Southwest was the only airline to cancel several flights from ITO.

"We temporarily paused our operation at Hilo yesterday, and that canceled nine total flights (all interisland, all running between Honolulu and Hilo), and one more ran about an hour late," a Southwest spokesperson confirmed via email. "No other impacts yesterday or today."

Overall, flights in and out of Hilo were still operating as normal Tuesday.

Dallas-based Southwest, which operates 60 interisland flights daily, is only rivaled by Hawaiian Airlines, which continued with its schedule of 140 interisland flights Monday as normal, with just delays, according to local reporting by Hawaii News Now .

"Our flights to and from Kona and Hilo have been operating as scheduled," a spokesperson said. "Guests are advised to check their flight status online for updates."

As of noon EST on Tuesday, ITO reported eight flight cancellations within the previous 24 hours, per FlightAware data.

Both airlines released travel waivers for passengers seeking to change upcoming flights to and from ITO and KOA free of charge. Those scheduled to fly Hawaiian Airlines from Nov. 28-Dec. 4 are eligible to reschedule their flight at no additional cost for the same city pair and cabin of the original ticket.

Hawaiian Airlines tickets must be rebooked by Dec. 4 for travel by Dec. 14. Alternatively, passengers can cancel their flight and receive a future flight credit expiring one year from the original date of purchase. No change fees will be charged, but a fare difference may apply.

Also on Monday, Southwest announced the opportunity for customers to rebook fights scheduled through Nov. 29 to or from any of the five Hawaiian airports it services — ITO, KOA, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Kahului Airport (OGG) and Lihue Airport (LIH). Southwest travelers can rebook for free in their original class of service or travel standby within 14 days of their initial travel date.

Cruise travel

Cruises to the Big Island have been unaffected so far by the eruption, with upcoming visits from ships operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line still on schedule.

A spokesperson for Norwegian, which is by far the biggest operator of cruises to the Big Island, told TPG the line was monitoring the situation but that the eruption this week had had no effect on the line's scheduled visits.

Norwegian's 2,184-passenger Pride of America visits the Big Island ports of Hilo and Kona every Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively, as part of weekly Hawaiian Islands sailings out of Honolulu.

The sailings offer passengers a chance to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as well as other Big Island sites."The safety of our guests and crew remain our top priority," a Norwegian spokesperson told TPG in an emailed statement. "We are monitoring the recent geological activity of Mauna Loa on the Big Island of Hawaii and will make any adjustments as needed."

In addition to Pride of America, cruise ships scheduled to visit the Big Island in the coming weeks include Princess' 3,560-passenger Royal Princess and Carnival's 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle.

In a typical year, cruise ships deliver more than 100,000 visitors to the Big Island.

National parks and volcano tourism

On the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, all accommodations, activities and attractions on the island are also operating normally, per the Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau .

"There is no reason at this time for travelers to change or alter their leisure or business plans," it said.

At this time, lava continues to exit Mokuaweoweo, the summit caldera of Mauna Loa, inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, per the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory . As of Nov. 29, Mauna Loa Road remains closed to vehicles from Kipukapuaulu and closed to pedestrians and bikes from the first cattle guard, extending to the summit caldera.

Otherwise, the main park areas remain open to visitors, per the National Park Service, which urges potential parkgoers to monitor the park website for further updates.

Even so, park and geological officials encouraged the public to stay away from the lava, warning of winds carrying volcanic gas and fine ash, per the USGS.

Bottom line

"I would just want to let our visitors know if you have planned a vacation or trip to Hawaii island, this eruption is no reason to change your plans," Hawaii Gov. David Ige told ABC News on Monday .

Despite this, be sure to check with your airline before heading to the airport for any upcoming flights to the Big Island.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Additional reporting by Gene Sloan.

As the world’s largest active volcano erupts in Hawaii, here’s what travelers need to know

Nov 28, 2022 • 3 min read

The smoking crater of Mauna Loa (photographed in 2018) © Getty Images

Mauna Loa , on the Big Island of Hawai‘i , began spewing ash and debris into the air on Sunday, turning the sky red. Authorities said on Monday there could be more volcanic activity, prompting the State of Hawaii to raise the volcano-alert level to “warning.”

Mauna Loa has been belching ash and lava since 11:30pm local time on Sunday, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS) – the first time the volcano has erupted since 1984.

“At this time, lava flows are contained within the summit area and are not threatening downslope communities,” a notification from USGS said.

No evacuation orders are in place, and businesses and schools remain open; still, locals have been asked to prepare for the possibility of the lava flow changing direction. In response, the Red Cross has opened shelters on the island as a precaution. 

On Monday morning, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory upgraded the volcano alert level from “advisory” to “warning” and advised residents that volcanic gases, ash, and  Pele’s Hair  (thin fibers created by volcanic gas) may be carried their way. People with breathing difficulties are encouraged to stay indoors.

Could the eruption impact my travel plans?

Unlikely for now. The situation seems to have stabilized and the eruption could remain contained in an area where it’s easier to monitor. There is no immediate threat to people’s safety in local communities. 

On Monday, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said that Mauna Loa’s eruption moved from the summit caldera to the northeast rift zone. This is an area where the terrain is flatter, which gives officials more time for preparation and early warning if the lava flow begins to move downhill toward neighborhoods. It takes the “threat away from the steepest slopes of the volcano where lava moves the fastest,” the HVO explains.

Regardless, locals and tourists visiting the area should review preparedness and refer to Hawaii County Civil Defense updates  for further guidance, the HVO said.

“Based on past events, the early stages of a Mauna Loa rift zone eruption can be very dynamic, and the location and advance of lava flows can change rapidly,” the HVO said. “HVO is in close consultation with emergency management partners and will monitor the volcano closely to provide further updates on activity.”

#MaunaLoa is erupting from vents on the Northeast Rift zone. Flows are moving downslope to the north. USGS Photos from Civil Air Patrol fight. #MaunaLoaErupts @Volcanoes_NPS @Hawaii_EMA @CivilDefenseHI pic.twitter.com/kUYWYPdk4L — USGS Volcanoes🌋 (@USGSVolcanoes) November 28, 2022

The Department of Transportation issued a travel advisory on Monday, asking passengers with flights to Hilo International Airport or the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole to check with their airline prior to heading to the airport due to the volcanic activity at Mauna Loa. 

If you’re on the ground, it’s worth noting that Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park   closed part of the summit  to visitors last month as a precautionary measure because of recent earthquakes. Mauna Loa Rd and the 6662ft Mauna Loa Lookout remain open to the public.

Mauna Loa is the largest active volcano on the planet. Until Sunday’s eruption, the NPS said this had been Mauna Loa’s longest recorded quiet period. However, a string of earthquakes at its summit in recent months put scientists on high alert for eruption.

Volcanic eruptions in Hawaii are traditionally seen as “ hō-ailona ,” a sign or omen, and mark a time of change. 

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Sep 4, 2024 • 14 min read

Capital One is an excellent gateway to unlocking exceptional savings on travel and value for your miles. Here's how.

Jul 25, 2024 • 19 min read

Jul 19, 2024 • 8 min read

May 16, 2024 • 12 min read

May 3, 2024 • 12 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 12 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Mountain View, CA

Mountain View

Around the Globe

Hurricane tracker.

Severe Weather

Radar & Maps

News & features, winter center, news / weather news, mauna loa eruption prompts warnings for hawaii’s big island.

After 38 years of silence, the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, began erupting late Sunday night. Residents are being told to review preparedness plans as the USGS keeps a close eye on the volcano.

By Allison Finch , AccuWeather staff writer

Published Nov 28, 2022 6:32 AM PDT | Updated Nov 29, 2022 8:19 AM PDT

After 38 years of silence, the world’s largest volcano, Mauna Loa, began erupting on Nov. 27, prompting ashfall advisories for Hawaii’s Big Island.

The world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, erupted late Sunday night after laying dormant for nearly 40 years, the  U.S. Geological Service's (USGS) volcanic activity service  reported. As a fire-orange glow illuminated the sky on Hawaii’s Big Island, an ashfall advisory was issued for the island and surrounding waters.

The eruption in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is “ confined to the summit ” and is not threatening downhill communities, according to the USGS. As the early eruption stages of this volcano can be very dynamic and the location and advance of lava flows can change rapidly, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) is closely monitoring it, USGS warned.

“We assume that any eruption on Mauna Loa could be a threat to communities, but it really depends on which way the lava goes,” USGS Ph.D. scientist Jessica Bell told AccuWeather in an interview. “If it goes to the northwest or the west, it could come down into the Waikoloa area and the coast there. If it were to start erupting and flowing more towards the east, then we would be worried about it approaching Hilo, which it did in the 1984 lava flow.”

The USGS uses models to look at a number of different scenarios to better understand the risk the lava poses to populated areas on the Big Island. Bell explained that while the potential flow rate and direction of the lava are still uncertain, all populated areas “are sort of on alert right now.”

Although no evacuations have been ordered, residents were voluntarily evacuating from the South Kona coast, and Hawaii County officials opened at least two shelters,  Hawaii News Now reported . Residents who are at risk for Mauna Loa lava flows are being told to review preparedness plans and check with Hawaii County Civil Defense for additional information.

“Lava flows are not threatening any downslope communities and all indications are that the eruption will remain in the Northeast Rift Zone,” the USGS wrote in an update at 6:30 a.m. HST .

The ground is shaking and swelling at Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano in the world, indicating that it could erupt. Scientists say they don't expect that to happen right away but officials on the Big Island of Hawaii are telling residents to be prepared in case it does erupt soon. This map shows the lava flow hazard level zones for the island.

The  Hawaii Department of Transportation  (DOT) issued a travel advisory for Hilo International Airport, which is roughly 40 miles east of the volcano. All passengers with flights to Hilo International Airport or the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, which is roughly 35 miles northwest of the volcano, are urged to check with their airline prior to heading to the airport.

Southwest Airlines suspended operations at Hilo International Airport on Monday due to the ashfall advisory, Sam Spangler,  a reporter for KHON2 in Honolulu, tweeted .

Due to winds potentially carrying volcanic gas and fine ash downwind, an  ashfall advisory  was in effect across portions of the Big Island of Hawaii and surrounding waters. As of 9 a.m. HST Monday, the ashfall advisory was lifted.

GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP

   Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts™ with Premium+

“People with respiratory illnesses should remain indoors to avoid inhaling the ash particles, and anyone outside should cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth,”  the National Weather Service in Honolulu warned . 

Ashfall can damage buildings and vehicles, contaminate water supplies, disrupt electrical systems and sewage and damage or kill vegetation, the NWS said in its warning.

According to Bell, another major concern from this eruption aside from the ash is the gas that is being released.

“Volcanoes mostly put out water vapor, but they also release carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and some other gases and smaller amounts, and those sulfur gases are the ones that will really start irritating your mucus membrane, [like] your lungs, your nose, your throat,” Bell said. “The easiest way to avoid those is to stay indoors. Close your doors and windows. You can also wear well-fitting N-95 masks to help alleviate it a little bit.”

A temporary thermal camera located on the north rim of Mauna Loa’s summit caldera shows lava erupting and flowing in the summit caldera of Mauna Loa. (USGS)

On Monday morning, the volcano alert level was upgraded from an  advisory  to a  warning .

There has been a “swarm of earthquakes,” according to USGS Ph.D. scientist Jessica Bell, who pointed out an increase in seismic activity and increased earthquake rates.

According to the USGS, earthquake activity increased from five to 10 quakes a day in June 2022, to some 10 to 20 quakes a day in July and August. On Sept. 23 and 29, peak numbers of 100 earthquakes a day were recorded,  CNN reported .

This increase in seismic activity resulted in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to close Mauna Loa summit to all backcountry hikers until further notice.

“We’ve also been watching changes in the shape of the volcano itself. We basically understood that there was an intrusion of magma into the volcano at some point,” Bell said. “It’s a little hard to pinpoint depth sometimes, but we knew that something had moved into a particular part of the volcano, and that is often [a] precursor to a summit eruption.”

Since records began in 1843, Mauna Loa has erupted 33 times, averaging one eruption every five years.

“However, most eruptions occurred prior to 1950, averaging 3.5 years between eruptions,”  USGS wrote in a report about the volcano , which takes up more than half of the Big Island in Hawaii and rises 13,679 feet above the Pacific Ocean. "Since 1950, there have only been two eruptions; a summit eruption 25 years later in 1975 and by a rift eruption nine years later in 1984.”

Sunday’s eruption has ended the longest quiet period on record.

More to read:

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you  subscribe to Premium+  on the  AccuWeather app . AccuWeather Alerts ™  are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.

Weather News

Typhoon Yagi leaves 74 dead in Myanmar after flooding and landslides

TikToker’s death after running scorching Disneyland half marathon

Big cooldown with rain, snow and wind to end southwestern US monsoon

AccuWeather Early

Hurricane center.

Top Stories

Trending Today

In memoriam, case studies, blogs & webinars.

Tropical rainstorm to continue inland with dangerous flooding risk

3 minutes ago

Tropical rainstorm dumps over 20 inches of rain in North Carolina

17 minutes ago

Weather Forecasts

7 hours ago

AccuWeather Ready

What everyone should know about these 3 most common types of flooding

Aug 12, 2024

Risk for severe storms, flooding to be renewed in the Plains this week

20 minutes ago

Featured Stories

Heat-related deaths surge by 117% since 1999, exceed 20,000 fatalities

14 hours ago

At least 8 dead as heaviest rain in decades hits parts of Europe

20 hours ago

Shanghai slammed by strongest storm in 7 decades, China says

CDC: Bird flu case in Missouri similar to strain circulating in cattle

19 hours ago

Explosive California wildfire looked like a bomb went off from space

We have updated our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy .

Get AccuWeather alerts as they happen with our browser notifications.

Notifications Enabled

Thanks! We’ll keep you informed.

Hawaii’s Big Island warned to be ready as huge volcano rumbles

HONOLULU — Hawaii officials are warning residents of the Big Island that the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, is sending signals that it may erupt.

Scientists say an eruption isn’t imminent, but they are on alert because of a recent spike in earthquakes at the volcano’s summit. Experts say it would take just a few hours for lava to reach homes closest to vents on the volcano, which last erupted in 1984.

Hawaii’s civil defense agency is holding meetings across the island to educate residents about how to prepare for a possible emergency. They recommend having a ″go″ bag with food, identifying a place to stay once they leave home and making a plan for reuniting with family members.

“Not to panic everybody, but they have to be aware of that you live on the slopes of Mauna Loa. There’s a potential for some kind of lava disaster,” said Talmadge Magno, the administrator for Hawaii County Civil Defense.

The volcano makes up 51% of the Hawaii Island landmass, so a large portion of the island has the potential to be affected by an eruption, Magno said.

There’s been a surge of development on the Big Island in recent decades — its population has more than doubled to 200,000 today from 92,000 in 1980 — and many newer residents weren’t around when Mauna Loa last erupted 38 years ago. All the more reason why Magno said officials are spreading the word about the science of the volcano and urging people to be prepared.

Mauna Loa, rising 13,679 feet (4,169 meters) above sea level, is the much larger neighbor to Kilauea volcano, which erupted in a residential neighborhood and destroyed 700 homes in 2018. Some of its slopes are much steeper than Kilauea’s so when it erupts, its lava can flow much faster.

During a 1950 eruption, the mountain’s lava traveled 15 miles (24 kilometers) to the ocean in less than three hours.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, which is part of the U.S. Geological Survey, said Mauna Loa has been in  a state of “heightened unrest”  since the middle of last month when the number of summit earthquakes jumped from 10 to 20 per day to 40 to 50 per day.

Scientists believe more earthquakes are occurring because more magma is flowing into Mauna Loa’s summit reservoir system from the hot spot under the earth’s surface that feeds molten rock to  Hawaii’s volcanoes .

The temblors have declined in frequency in recent days but could rise again.

More than 220 people attended a community meeting last weekend that county civil defense officials held in Ocean View, a neighborhood that lava could reach in hours if molten rock erupts through vents on Mauna Loa’s southwest flank.

Bob Werner, an Ocean View resident who didn’t attend the meeting, said it’s wise to be aware of a possible eruption but not to fear it. He’s not concerned that the neighborhood would be completely cut off, if lava flows across the only road connecting it to the bigger towns of Kailua-Kona and Hilo, where many people do their shopping.

The “greater concern is it will be extremely annoying to drive an extra hour or two hours to get the same stuff,” he said.

Ryan Williams, the owner of the Margarita Village bar in Hilo, said the volcanic unrest wasn’t worrying customers who are used to warnings.

There could still be a heightened sense of urgency since officials have been holding town hall meetings, urging people to prepare.

“But everything I’ve read or heard, they trying to kind of assure people that conditions have not changed,” Williams said. “There’s no imminent eruption, but just to be alert.”

Magno said his agency is talking to residents now because communities closest to vents likely wouldn’t have enough time to learn how to respond and prepare once the observatory raises its alert level to “watch,” which means an eruption is imminent.

The current alert level is “advisory” meaning the volcano is showing signs of unrest yet there’s no indication an eruption is likely or certain.

Residents in other parts of the island would have more time to react.

Lava from Mauna Loa’s northeast flank could take days or weeks to reach residential communities. That’s because the mountain’s slopes on that side are relatively gentle and because towns are farther from volcanic vents.

Frank Trusdell, research geologist at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, said all of Mauna Loa’s eruptions in recorded history have started in its summit crater. About half of them stayed there, while the other half later spewed lava from vents lower down the mountain.

Lava erupting from the summit generally doesn’t travel far enough to reach residential areas.

Mauna Loa has erupted 33 times since 1843. It last erupted in 1984 when lava flowed down its eastern flank only to stop 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) short of Hilo, the Big Island’s most populous town.

Molten rock flows from Mauna Loa, located on the south-central part of the island of Hawaii, on April 4, 1984. (AP Photo/File)

Mauna Loa also has a history of disgorging huge volumes of lava.

In the 1950 eruption, which lasted for 23 days, Mauna Loa released 1,000 cubic meters (1,307 cubic yards) of lava per second. In contrast, Kilauea released 300 cubic meters (392 cubic yards) per second in 2018.

The earthquakes could continue for a while before any eruption: increased seismic activity lasted for a year before a 1975 eruption and a year-and-a-half before the 1984 one. Alternatively, the temblors could subside and Mauna Loa may not erupt this time.

Trusdell said residents should look at his agency’s maps and learn how quickly lava may show up in their neighborhood. He also urged people living in one of the short-notice areas to pay attention if the summit turns red.

“All you got to do is look up there and see the glow. You grab your stuff, throw it in the car and drive. Go!” he said.

They can always go home after if the lava ultimately doesn’t flow into their neighborhood, he said.

People Beauty Awards: Winners across skin care, hair, makeup — from $10

• Share this —

• Watch Full Episodes
• Read With Jenna
• Inspirational
• Relationships
• TODAY Table
• Newsletters
• Start TODAY
• Shop TODAY Awards
• Citi Concert Series
• Listen All Day

Follow today

More Brands

• On The Show
• TODAY Plaza

Hawaii’s Big Island on high alert as world’s largest active volcano sends signals it may erupt

HONOLULU — Hawaii officials are warning residents of the Big Island that the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, is sending signals that it may erupt.

Scientists say an eruption isn’t imminent, but they are on alert because of a recent spike in earthquakes at the volcano’s summit. Experts say it would take just a few hours for lava to reach homes closest to vents on the volcano, which last erupted in 1984.

Hawaii’s civil defense agency is holding meetings across the island to educate residents about how to prepare for a possible emergency. They recommend having a ″go″ bag with food, identifying a place to stay once they leave home and making a plan for reuniting with family members.

“Not to panic everybody, but they have to be aware of that you live on the slopes of Mauna Loa. There’s a potential for some kind of lava disaster,” said Talmadge Magno, the administrator for Hawaii County Civil Defense.

The volcano makes up 51 percent of the Big Island's landmass, so a large portion of the island has the potential to be affected by an eruption, Magno said.

There’s been a surge of development on the Big Island in recent decades — its population has more than doubled to 200,000 today from 92,000 in 1980 — and many newer residents weren’t around when Mauna Loa last erupted 38 years ago. All the more reason why Magno said officials are spreading the word about the science of the volcano and urging people to be prepared.

Mauna Loa, rising 13,679 feet (4,169 meters) above sea level, is the much larger neighbor to Kilauea volcano, which erupted in a residential neighborhood and destroyed 700 homes in 2018. Some of its slopes are much steeper than Kilauea’s so when it erupts, its lava can flow much faster.

During a 1950 eruption, the mountain’s lava traveled 15 miles (24 kilometers) to the ocean in less than three hours.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, which is part of the U.S. Geological Survey, said Mauna Loa has been in  a state of “heightened unrest”  since the middle of last month when the number of summit earthquakes jumped from 10 to 20 per day to 40 to 50 per day.

Scientists believe more earthquakes are occurring because more magma is flowing into Mauna Loa’s summit reservoir system from the hot spot under the earth’s surface that feeds molten rock to  Hawaii’s volcanoes .

The temblors have declined in frequency in recent days but could rise again.

More than 220 people attended a community meeting earlier this month that county civil defense officials held in Ocean View, a neighborhood that lava could reach in hours if molten rock erupts through vents on Mauna Loa’s southwest flank.

Bob Werner, an Ocean View resident who didn’t attend the meeting, said it’s wise to be aware of a possible eruption but not to fear it. He’s not concerned that the neighborhood would be completely cut off, if lava flows across the only road connecting it to the bigger towns of Kailua-Kona and Hilo, where many people do their shopping.

The “greater concern is it will be extremely annoying to drive an extra hour or two hours to get the same stuff,” he said.

Ryan Williams, the owner of the Margarita Village bar in Hilo, said the volcanic unrest wasn’t worrying customers who are used to warnings.

There could still be a heightened sense of urgency since officials have been holding town hall meetings, urging people to prepare.

“But everything I’ve read or heard, they trying to kind of assure people that conditions have not changed,” Williams said. “There’s no imminent eruption, but just to be alert.”

Magno said his agency is talking to residents now because communities closest to vents likely wouldn’t have enough time to learn how to respond and prepare once the observatory raises its alert level to “watch,” which means an eruption is imminent.

The current alert level is “advisory” meaning the volcano is showing signs of unrest yet there’s no indication an eruption is likely or certain.

Residents in other parts of the island would have more time to react.

Lava from Mauna Loa’s northeast flank could take days or weeks to reach residential communities because the mountain’s slopes on that side are relatively gentle and towns are farther from volcanic vents.

Frank Trusdell, research geologist at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, said all of Mauna Loa’s eruptions in recorded history have started in its summit crater. About half of them stayed there, while the other half later spewed lava from vents lower down the mountain.

Lava erupting from the summit generally doesn’t travel far enough to reach residential areas.

Mauna Loa has erupted 33 times since 1843. It last erupted in 1984 when lava flowed down its eastern flank only to stop 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) short of Hilo, the Big Island’s most populous town.

Mauna Loa also has a history of disgorging huge volumes of lava.

In the 1950 eruption, which lasted for 23 days, Mauna Loa released 1,000 cubic meters (1,307 cubic yards) of lava per second. In contrast, Kilauea released 300 cubic meters (392 cubic yards) per second in 2018.

The earthquakes could continue for a while before any eruption: increased seismic activity lasted for a year before a 1975 eruption and a year and a half before the 1984 one. Alternatively, the temblors could subside and Mauna Loa may not erupt this time.

Trusdell said residents should look at his agency’s maps and learn how quickly lava may show up in their neighborhood. He also urged people living in one of the short-notice areas to pay attention if the summit turns red.

“All you got to do is look up there and see the glow. You grab your stuff, throw it in the car and drive. Go!” he said.

They can always go home after if the lava ultimately doesn’t flow into their neighborhood, he said.

Kilauea volcano eruption resumes on Hawaii's Big Island, alert elevated from watch to warning

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory elevated the alert from "watch" to "warning."

The Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island has started erupting again.

The U.S. Geological Survey said Thursday night that its Hawaiian Volcano Observatory "detected glow" in webcam images of the Kilauea summit, "indicating that the eruption has resumed within Halemaʻumaʻu crater in Kīlauea's summit caldera, within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park."

MORE: Hawaii's Big Island abuzz over simultaneous eruptions at Mauna Loa and Kilauea

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has elevated the volcano alert from "watch" to "warning."

"The opening phases of eruptions are dynamic. Webcam imagery shows fissures at the base of Halemaʻumaʻu crater generating lava flows on the surface of the crater floor," the USGS said. "The activity is confined to Halemaʻumaʻu and the hazards will be reassessed as the eruption progresses."

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency said lava is confined to the crater and that no communities are threatened.

Just last month, both Kilauea, one of the most active volcanos in the world, and Mauna Loa, the largest volcano in the world, ignited the landscape of Hawaii's Big Island.

Officials told ABC News at the time that it was a sign that Pele, the Polynesian goddess of fire, is blessing the land.

Locals and tourists alike flocked to the best spots to take in the views of the red-hot lava slowly bubbling from the crater of the volcanoes at the time.

The double eruption was so unique because the volcanoes are fed by different magma or "plumbing" systems, and neither eruption is sparked by the other, Jessica Ferracane, public affairs specialist for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, told ABC News at the time.

Mauna Loa had not erupted since 1984.

A lake of lava has been forming inside the summit crater of Kilauea since September 2021, and Kilauea has been erupting consistently ever since, according to Ferracane. But in 2018, about 700 homes were destroyed during a particularly devastating eruption at Kilauea, which caused the entire summit to collapse into a crater quadruple its size and closed the park for 134 days, Ferracane said.

Related Topics

Popular reads.

College closes after threats in Springfield, Ohio

• Sep 15, 5:31 PM

Trump is 'safe' after agents fire at gunman

• Sep 15, 11:12 PM

Harris seen as debate winner: POLL

• Sep 15, 7:01 AM

Gunman didn't have Trump in sight or take a shot

• Sep 16, 7:13 PM

4 dead in shooting at Georgia high school

• Sep 4, 10:47 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

Kilauea volcano in Hawaii continues to erupt. Here's how to watch the lava fountains

One of the world's most active volcanoes, Kilauea on the Big Island of Hawaii, continued to erupt Thursday, sending up fountains of lava from its crater floor.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the eruption began at 4:44 a.m. Wednesday local time with the glow of lava at the summit, and moved its volcano alert level from "warning" to "watch," and the aviation warning in the area to "red."

Viewers can see the glowing red lava ooze out of Kilauea for themselves via a livestream on YouTube . On Thursday morning, the stream showed lava bubbling to the surface of the crater and oozing down the volcano.

The eruption is confined to a closed area of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, the service said.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency said on Twitter that populated areas were not under threat. Lava flows from other parts of the volcano have destroyed populated areas in years past.

But officials warned Wednesday of airborne health hazards to people, agriculture and livestock as the eruption can generate gases that react as smog, and drop ash and even shards of volcanic glass that worsen breathing problems and irritate eyes and skin.

"High levels of volcanic gas are the primary hazard of concern, as this hazard can have far-reaching effects downwind," the USGS said.

How can I watch the Kilauea eruption?

USGS broadcasts a livestream video of the crater on its YouTube channel, where viewers can see glowing molten lava bubbling and oozing out of the ground. The lava is especially visible in the dark hours before dawn. Hawaii time is several hours behind the mainland U.S.

What island is Kilauea volcano on?

The volcano that began erupting Wednesday is located on Hawaii's Big Island, otherwise known as the Island of Hawaii. Five volcanoes make up the island. Kilauea's bigger neighbor, Mauna Loa , sent molten lava sliding toward a major highway as recently as last year.

How often does the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii erupt?

The Kilauea volcano has erupted as recently as March. It also erupted from September 2021 through mid-December. 

The eruption of Kilauea volcano is happening in a section of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that has been completely closed to the public since 2007, according to the USGS .

Is Kilauea dangerous?

Past eruptions have led to lava flows from different parts of the volcano that caused extensive damage.

A 2018 eruption flooded an area 10 times the size of New York's Central Park, destroying more than 700 structures, including 200 homes, and displacing about 3,000 people . The damage estimate totaled nearly $300 million for residents, with another $236 million in damage to roads, waterlines and public parks.

Officials note that the eruption is currently contained within the Halemaumau Crater, meaning it poses no risk at this time to nearby homes or roads.

The crater at the site of the volcano has unstable walls, the earth in the area of the volcano cracks open and there are earthquakes that cause rocks and other materials to fall apart.

"This underscores the extremely hazardous nature of Kīlauea caldera rim," the USGS website said.

Breaking News Alerts

Press "allow" to activate.

• Big Island News
• Big Island Polls
• Local Discussion
• Entertainment
• Guest Columns
• COVID-19 Updates
• Hawaii Sports
• Hawaii Volcano Blog
• Weather Forecast
• Surf Report
• Merrie Monarch
• ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi / Hawaiian Language
• Hawaii Activities
• Recent Job Listings
• Upcoming Events
• Map of Events
• Opioid Crisis
• About Big Island Now
• Get the App
• Advertising
• Meet the Team

Privacy Policy | About Our Ads

• Events Calendar
• Job Listings

Kīlauea alert status raised to advisory

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory increased Kilauea Volcano’s alert status at advisory.

Elevated rates of ground deformation in Kīlauea’s middle East Rift Zone continue following the June 22–25 upper East Rift Zone intrusion within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. These observations indicate that magma is accumulating beneath the ground in the area of Makaopuhi Crater and Napau Crater, a well-known magma storage region on Kīlauea’s remote middle East Rift Zone.

The current volcanic activity is within the national park boundaries and does not present a threat outside the park. and does not pose a threat outside of the park.

Earthquakes have continued to occur in the upper East Rift Zone with around 70 events per day per day and 25 events in the middle East Rift Zone since the July 22–25 intrusion. Most events have been smaller than magnitude 2 and located 1.5–2.2 miles beneath the ground surface.

At Kīlauea’s summit, earthquake activity has remained low following the upper East Rift Zone intrusion, while ground deformation patterns have shown steady inflation since July 26.

The map below shows recent deformation at Kīlauea, over the timeframe of July 26 to Aug. 7 from data acquired by the European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1A satellite. Colored fringes denote areas of ground deformation, with more fringes indicating more deformation.

Each color cycle represents 1.1 inch of ground motion. The round feature east of Makaopuhi Crater on the East Rift Zone indicates inflation over this time period due to magma accumulation underground.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory listed out some possible scenarios that could play out in the coming days to weeks:    

• No eruption: Magma accumulation continues to slow or stop below the surface near Makaopuhi Crater and does not result in an eruption.
• Upper to Middle East Rift Zone intrusion or eruption: New pulses of magma could be transferred from the summit to the middle East Rift Zone below the surface to the area from Maunaulu to Napau Crater, leading to an intrusion or eruption in the upper to middle East Rift Zone within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. In this scenario, we would expect to see increased rates of earthquakes in the upper to middle East Rift Zone along with ground deformation and summit deflation before lava reached the surface.
• Summit eruption: It is possible that an eruption could occur in the summit region. In this scenario, we would expect to see increased rates of seismicity and ground deformation in the summit region before lava reached the surface.
• Eastward magma migration: New pulses of magma could continue to accumulate below the surface near Makaopuhi Crater and migrate eastward toward and possibly beyond Puʻuʻōʻō. In this scenario, we would expect to see earthquake locations and ground deformation patterns start to occur further east than they are now. This scenario is less likely than the above scenarios based on current activity.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to closely monitor Kīlauea, watching for any signs of unrest that may precede a new eruption. Should volcanic activity change significantly, a Volcanic Activity Notice will be issued.

Sponsored Content

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Send Me Daily Updates
• Send Me Weekly Updates

• Hawaii Videos
• Hawaii Jobs
• Meet the Writers
• Advertise With Us

Facebook YouTube Twitter Instagram

• Big Island Guide
• DESTINATIONS

Is it Safe to Visit Hawaii after the Eruption?

• SIGHTSEEING

Yes, it is safe to visit Hawaii even with all of the recent Volcanic Activity.

Image: USGS – The 2018 Kilauea Eruption lasted from April through August of 2018

Section of Road cut through the recent lava flow on the Kalapana-Kapoho Road.

Understanding What Part of the Big Island was Affected

Kilauea Has Been Continuously Erupting Since 1983

Image: USGS

Understanding A Shield Volcano

Image: J.D. Grigg/U.S. Geological Survey

Things to Consider When Visiting Hawaii in Relation to Volcanic Activity

Crystal Clear Horizon at Kua Bay on the Kona Coast. You can even see Maui in the distance.

Living in the Path of an Active Volcano

Resources for Volcanic Activity Information

Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort on Hawaii Island

Related articles.

• ART & CULTURE

Puna Farmers Markets

Puna is host to several large Farmers Markets offering up some of the island’s best produce, delicious cuisine and handmade crafts.

A Guide to Visiting Puna Hawaii

Puna is a massive, diverse region that provides easy access to the frequent lava activity of the Big Island as well as incredible sightseeing and hiking.

• VACATION RENTALS
• ON THE BEACH
• ACCOMMODATIONS

Black Sand Beach House

Located just minutes from the Big Island’s best natural attractions, the Black Sand Beach House is the perfect ocean front retreat.

• Newsletter Signup Email Address *

Hawaii Top Things to Know Explore Now →

Kauai Guide

Big island guide, essential travel tips.

• Which Island to Visit? →
• Best Time to Visit →
• Hawaii Must See & Do →
• Hawaii Itineraries →

Travel Information

• Hawaii Weather →
• What to Pack? →
• Best Hawaii Island to Visit →
• Hawaii Safety Tips →

Hawaii Resources

• Hawaii Airports & Terminals →
• Hawaii Maps →
• Hawaii Travel News & Blog →
• Hawaii Visitor FAQ →

View our Hawaii Visitor Guides →

Hawaii Accommodations →

Lodging by island.

• Oahu Lodging
• Maui Lodging
• Big Island Lodging
• Kauai Lodging

Where to Stay

• Where to stay on Oahu →
• Where to stay on Maui →
• Where to stay on Big Island →
• Where to stay on Kauai →

When to Visit

• Best Time to Visit Oahu →
• Best Time to Visit Maui →
• Best Time to Visit the Big Island →
• Best Time to Visit Kauai →

Explore Hawaii Hotel Deals on Expedia Search Now

Hawaii Tours & Activities →

Tours by Island

• Big Island Tours
• Kauai Tours

Hawaii Attractions

• Hawaii Things to See & Do →
• Oahu Attractions →
• Maui Attractions →
• Big Island Attractions →
• Kauai Attractions →

Hawaii Must See & Do

• Oahu Must See & Do →
• Maui Must See & Do →
• Big Island Must See & Do →
• Kauai Must See & Do →

Explore Hand-Picked Hawaii Tours Search Now

Hawaii Travel Advisories & Restrictions

Information on restrictions in hawaii including hawaii related travel advisories.

Discount Hawaii Car Rentals

Current Travel Advisories, Restrictions, & Updates

What are the travel restrictions & requirements in hawaii, last updated:  july 8, 2024.

We've covered all of the latest Hawaii travel news and announcements below, including the steps travelers should follow to safely visit Hawaii in the future.

Maui Travel Updates

Lahaina remains closed.

Lahaina will remain mostly closed to the public until further notice out of respect to the town's residents. County, state, and federal emergency responders continue with efforts to clean-up efforts of debris and hazardous materials resulting from the wildfires.

Garden of Eden - East Maui

Before you visit…

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority advises travelers to check with individual accommodations, activities and businesses in West Maui for their availability and hours of operation. As travelers return to Maui after the devastating August wildfires, they will help to sustain jobs, keep businesses open, and support the community.

We urge all visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in the islands as the community continues through this tragedy.

Maui Wildfires

In August 2023, wildfires damaged a significant portion of West Maui, many lives were lost, and 2,200+ structures were destroyed -  making it the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century and Hawaii's worst natural disaster in modern history . 

More information can be found on our   August 2023 Maui wildfire  page.

Remainder of West Maui Reopened November 1, 2023

In late September 2023, Maui's Mayor, Richard Bissen,  released brand-new details  about how the island will go about reopening the resort areas surrounding Lahaina, which will remain closed indefinitely.

The plan initially involved three phases, but the Mayor  reopened the rest of West Maui on November 1, 2023 .

Hawaii Events

Information Disclaimer:  Details and information on this page, including dates, may change on a day-by-day basis. While we will be making every effort to keep these pages relevant and up to date, the decision to travel is ultimately your own responsibility.

Terms of Use & Disclosures

By using this website, you agree to our terms and conditions found on our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page. If you do not agree, please do not use the site. We earn small commissions from some travel partners, which helps us maintain the site. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These links are at no extra cost to you. Mahalo!

Download our Hawaii Map Packet

Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times for each respective island..

Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included.

Download your copy of our... 2024 Hawaii Travel Guide

Hawaii-Guide.com has been featured in...

Hawaii Visitor Information...

Looking for Tours & Activities? Try our Free Hawaii Concierge →

Plus & Premium Benefits

Donate and remove ALL the ads

Mahalo for your support!

By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms . Mahalo!

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Newsletters
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Mauna Loa eruption prompts warnings for Hawaii's Big Island

The world's largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, erupted late Sunday night after laying dormant for nearly 40 years, the U.S. Geological Service's (USGS) volcanic activity service reported. As a fire-orange glow illuminated the sky on Hawaii's Big Island, an ashfall advisory was issued for the island and surrounding waters.

The eruption in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is " confined to the summit " and is not threatening downhill communities, according to the USGS. As the early eruption stages of this volcano can be very dynamic and the location and advance of lava flows can change rapidly, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) is closely monitoring it, USGS warned.

"We assume that any eruption on Mauna Loa could be a threat to communities, but it really depends on which way the lava goes," USGS Ph.D. scientist Jessica Bell told AccuWeather in an interview. "If it goes to the northwest or the west, it could come down into the Waikoloa area and the coast there. If it were to start erupting and flowing more towards the east, then we would be worried about it approaching Hilo, which it did in the 1984 lava flow."

The USGS uses models to look at a number of different scenarios to better understand the risk the lava poses to populated areas on the Big Island. Bell explained that while the potential flow rate and direction of the lava are still uncertain, all populated areas "are sort of on alert right now."

Although no evacuations have been ordered, residents were voluntarily evacuating from the South Kona coast, and Hawaii County officials opened at least two shelters, Hawaii News Now reported . Residents who are at risk for Mauna Loa lava flows are being told to review preparedness plans and check with Hawaii County Civil Defense for additional information.

"Lava flows are not threatening any downslope communities and all indications are that the eruption will remain in the Northeast Rift Zone," the USGS wrote in an update at 6:30 a.m. HST .

The Hawaii Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a travel advisory for Hilo International Airport, which is roughly 40 miles east of the volcano. All passengers with flights to Hilo International Airport or the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, which is roughly 35 miles northwest of the volcano, are urged to check with their airline prior to heading to the airport.

Southwest Airlines suspended operations at Hilo International Airport on Monday due to the ashfall advisory, Sam Spangler, a reporter for KHON2 in Honolulu, tweeted .

Due to winds potentially carrying volcanic gas and fine ash downwind, an ashfall advisory was in effect across portions of the Big Island of Hawaii and surrounding waters. As of 9 a.m. HST Monday, the ashfall advisory was lifted.

GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP

Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts™ with Premium+

"People with respiratory illnesses should remain indoors to avoid inhaling the ash particles, and anyone outside should cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth," the National Weather Service in Honolulu warned .

Ashfall can damage buildings and vehicles, contaminate water supplies, disrupt electrical systems and sewage and damage or kill vegetation, the NWS said in its warning.

According to Bell, another major concern from this eruption aside from the ash is the gas that is being released.

"Volcanoes mostly put out water vapor, but they also release carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and some other gases and smaller amounts, and those sulfur gases are the ones that will really start irritating your mucus membrane, [like] your lungs, your nose, your throat," Bell said. "The easiest way to avoid those is to stay indoors. Close your doors and windows. You can also wear well-fitting N-95 masks to help alleviate it a little bit."

On Monday morning, the volcano alert level was upgraded from an advisory to a warning .

There has been a "swarm of earthquakes," according to USGS Ph.D. scientist Jessica Bell, who pointed out an increase in seismic activity and increased earthquake rates.

According to the USGS, earthquake activity increased from five to 10 quakes a day in June 2022, to some 10 to 20 quakes a day in July and August. On Sept. 23 and 29, peak numbers of 100 earthquakes a day were recorded, CNN reported .

This increase in seismic activity resulted in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to close Mauna Loa summit to all backcountry hikers until further notice.

"We've also been watching changes in the shape of the volcano itself. We basically understood that there was an intrusion of magma into the volcano at some point," Bell said. "It's a little hard to pinpoint depth sometimes, but we knew that something had moved into a particular part of the volcano, and that is often [a] precursor to a summit eruption."

Since records began in 1843, Mauna Loa has erupted 33 times, averaging one eruption every five years.

"However, most eruptions occurred prior to 1950, averaging 3.5 years between eruptions," USGS wrote in a report about the volcano , which takes up more than half of the Big Island in Hawaii and rises 13,679 feet above the Pacific Ocean. "Since 1950, there have only been two eruptions; a summit eruption 25 years later in 1975 and by a rift eruption nine years later in 1984."

Sunday's eruption has ended the longest quiet period on record.

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app . AccuWeather Alerts ™ are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.

Recommended Stories

Report: twins release minor-league catcher derek bender for tipping pitches to opposing hitters.

The Minnesota Twins released minor-league catcher Derek Bender after he tipped pitches to opposing hitters in a game in which his team was eliminated from playoff contention.

Texas QB Quinn Ewers leaves UTSA game with 'strained abdomen,' Arch Manning throws TD on next play

Manning then rushed for a 67-yard TD on his third play.

Cowboys DC Mike Zimmer, star Micah Parsons on different pages about defensive issues after blowout loss vs. Saints

The Cowboys gave up six straight touchdown drives in their blowout loss to the Saints on Sunday.

What a bigger-than-expected Fed rate cut would mean for the stock market

Recent market history shows the Federal Reserve typically only starts interest cuts with 50 basis point reductions when the economy is significantly weakening.

‘Serious energy deflation’ is coming whether Trump or Harris wins, says analyst

No matter who wins the election, energy prices are poised to drop.

Chain official from Ravens-Raiders hospitalized after collapsing on field, receiving chest compressions

A chain official was carted off the field on Sunday night during the Bears-Texans game, too.

Panic Meter: Travis Kelce, Sam LaPorta, Dalton Kincaid and more + Waiver Wire pickups | Yahoo Fantasy Forecast

Week 2 is in the books and oh my there's a lot of panic on these fantasy streets. Dalton Del Don joins Matt Harmon for the regular season debut of 'People's Panic Meter' to answer all of your listener submissions. The duo examines the situations for Travis Kelce, Dalton Kincaid, Sam LaPorta and many more.

After penalties, Cal coach grabs referee's mic to plead with fans to stop throwing cards on the field

Cal was assessed two 15-yard penalties for objects on the field in its 31-10 win over San Diego State.

Formula 1: McLaren takes over constructors lead with Oscar Piastri win in Azerbaijan; Sergio Perez crashes

Perez crashed with Carlos Sainz on the penultimate lap.

watchOS 11 is out now, with new Sleep Apnea feature

Over three months after Apple introduced it at WWDC 2024, watchOS 11 is officially here. The 2024 Apple Watch update, which adds the new Vital apps, widget improvements and sleep apnea detection, is now available to install on your smartwatch.

Saints are good now? Ravens in big trouble: Week 2 instant reactions | Inside Coverage

Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab join forces to give their instant takeaways and reactions from every game in the Week 2 NFL Sunday slate.

Driver accused of killing NHL's Johnny Gaudreau and brother denied bail, had .087 blood-alcohol level

Sean Higgins is charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.

Man arrested, charged with stalking after allegedly harassing UConn star Paige Bueckers for months

A 40-year-old Oregon man is being charged with breach of peace, electronic stalking and harassment.

Deion Sanders wonders why Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders didn't get more Week 1 recognition

Colorado beat FCS school North Dakota State 31-26 in Week 1.

How to maximize your interest earnings following a Fed rate cut

The Fed is expected to cut its target rate this week, which will have a ripple effect on bank accounts. So how can you keep earning interest on your savings? Here’s what to do.

Duke's Cooper Flagg, likely top pick in 2025 NBA Draft, signs shoe deal with New Balance

Duke freshman and likely 2025 No. 1 NBA draft pick Cooper Flagg has signed a multi-year endorsement deal with New Balance.

College Football Playoff Picture: Here's what the 12-team bracket looks like after Week 2

The first iteration of the 12-team College Football Playoff is only months away. After two weeks of action, the field is filled with SEC teams.

Where does Notre Dame's stunning loss fall among the biggest upsets in college football history?

Northern Illinois defeated Notre Dame in South Bend as 28.5-point underdogs.

Anne Hathaway's joined the legions of fans sporting these $50 Birkenstock slides

Stay comfortable and look stylish in these A-list-approved sandals.

Rangers call-up Kumar Rocker strikes out 7 in electric MLB debut

Rocker's slider already looks like an elite pitch.

Big Island Video News

Serving Hawaii County

Inset of thermal map showing the location of the eruption on the middle East Rift Zone of Kīlauea. Full map below.

by Big Island Video News on Sep 16, 2024 at 9:13 pm

Subscribe to Big Island Video News (FREE)

STORY SUMMARY

ISLAND OF HAWAIʻI - The eruption, which resumed at 6 p.m. Monday evening, is occurring within a closed and remote area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

USGS: “A brief, small eruption occurred on the middle East Rift Zone of Kīlauea late on September 15. The eruption produced two small pads of lava just west of Nāpau Crater, which is west (uprift) of the former Pu‘u‘ō‘ō eruption site.” (USGS photo by M. Patrick)

(BIVN) – The eruption on the middle East Rift Zone of Kīlauea volcano resumed on Monday evening, after a day-long pause in activity. 

The eruption, located west of Nāpau Crater, began on the night of September 15, but had stopped by the morning. However, the increased seismicity and ground  deformation in the area did not cease, indicating that the magmatic intrusion into the region had not ended. Scientists warned that “renewed episodes of intense unrest or eruption” were possible and could occur with little warning.

At approximately 6 p.m., the eruption resumed.

The eruption does not currently pose an immediate threat to human life or infrastructure, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported in a new Volcanic Activity Notice issued Monday night. 

The Volcano Alert Level for ground-based hazards at Kilauea remains at WATCH and the Aviation Color Code remains at ORANGE, as of 9 p.m. on September 16th.

“Chain of Craters Road, which is closed, is located downslope and downwind of the erupting fissures,” wrote the USGS HVO. “Residents of nearby subdivisions may experience volcanic gas emissions related to this activity, which may wax and wane over the coming days.”

This thermal map shows two small lava pads erupted late on September 15, just west of Nāpau Crater on the East Rift Zone of Kīlauea. This small eruption resulted from magma intruding from the summit into the East Rift Zone, and was associated with an increase in earthquake activity along the East Rift Zone. The largest of the two lava pads was only about 200 m (yards) long.

Current activity is restricted to Kīlaueaʻs middle East Rift Zone, scientists said. Rates of seismicity and ground deformation beneath the lower East Rift Zone and Southwest Rift Zone remain low.

About Big Island Video News

• Privacy Policy