Kilauea volcano erupts for the 31st time since December, shooting lava again
Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has once again roared back to life, displaying its 31st eruption since December. The eruption began with the north vent at the summit crater spattering continuously in the morning, followed by lava overflow a few hours later, with the vent later shooting lava fountains in the afternoon. Fortunately, this eruption was contained within the summit crater, posing no threat to nearby homes.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park provides a front-row viewing experience for a few lucky residents and visitors, with popular livestreams enabling hundreds of thousands more to witness the spectacular event through U.S. Geological Survey cameras set up for the public. Park volunteer Janice Wei described the exhilarating experience of capturing photos and videos of Halemaumau Crater during the eruption, likening it to being at the forefront of nature’s most astounding performance.
Located on Hawaii Island, Kilauea volcano’s latest eruption is characterized by towering fountains of molten rock. Scientist Ken Hon explained that magma from the earth’s interior is being fed into a lower chamber at a rate of about 5 cubic yards per second, causing the magma to rise to the surface through cracks. The eruption features spectacular lava fountains, some reaching heights exceeding 1,000 feet, resulting from the release of gases trapped in the magma as it ascends through narrow vents.
Notably, this eruption is part of a continuous volcanic activity that has been ongoing since December, with previous episodes showcasing similar lava fountains. Kilauea has exhibited this pattern with lava fountain episodes occurring in 200-year cycles, including notable events in 1959 and 1969. While scientists monitor the eruption closely, predicting its future remains a challenging task, necessitating constant observation of ground movements and seismic activity.
The eruption’s impact extends beyond its visual spectacle, carrying significant cultural significance for native Hawaiians. Huihui Kanahele-Mossman emphasized that lava, viewed by some as destructive, is a natural resource essential for land formation, reflecting the foundational essence of Hawaii Island. Drawing inspiration from the volcano’s activity, Kanahele-Mossman’s organization, rooted in Hawaiian cultural traditions, conducts hula performances that narrate stories of Pele, the volcano goddess, and her sister Hi’iaka.
Visitation to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has surged in response to the eruption, with park spokesperson Jessica Ferracane noting a 49% increase in visitors compared to the previous year. The lava flows, although awe-inspiring, signify a reminder of the intertwined relationship between the natural world and Hawaiian cultural heritage. Visitors to the volcano bear witness to the ongoing eruption, attracting individuals seeking a deeper connection to the land and its rich historical narratives.