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Why Kīlauea Is in the News
Kīlauea Volcano, located on Hawaii’s Big Island, erupted for the 31st time since December 2024, sending awe-inspiring lava fountains up to 100 meters high! Notably, the eruption of August 22-23, 2025, lasted over 12 hours with nearly 11 million cubic yards of lava released—covering much of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. This eruption remains confined to the summit, creating a dramatic but contained natural spectacle. The volcano’s continuous activity, coupled with no threat to nearby homes but prominent gas emissions, has once again put Kīlauea in the news worldwide.
“What happens when Earth’s most restless volcano awakens under a moonlit sky? Kīlauea’s eruptions teach us about geologic power, resilience, and the ongoing dialogue between land and life.”
About Kīlauea Volcano
- Kīlauea Volcano is located in the southeastern part of Hawaii’s Big Island, within the boundaries of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- It rises to an elevation of 1,247 meters (4,091 feet) above sea level.
- Kīlauea is classified as a shield volcano, which means it is broad and gently sloping, formed primarily by the outpouring of very fluid lava flows.
- In Hawaiian tradition, Kīlauea is considered the legendary home of Pele, the revered goddess of volcanoes.
- Globally, Kīlauea holds the distinction of being among the world’s most active volcanoes, having erupted almost continuously since 1983.
Unique Geographical Aspects
- Caldera & Halemaʻumaʻu Crater: Kīlauea’s summit hosts a massive summit caldera with the world-famous Halemaʻumaʻu crater, currently the main eruption site.
- Eruptive Vents: Multiple vents (north, south, intermediate) often open during eruptions—north vent was especially active in August 2025, shooting lava to 325 feet (100 meters).
- Lava Flows: Basaltic lava travels rapidly, shaping new land; the August 2025 eruption alone covered over 75% of the crater floor.
- Volcanic Gases: Eruptions emit gasses like SO₂, influencing air quality and vegetation—closely monitored for public safety.
- Geological Youth: Kīlauea is about 300,000-600,000 years old, making it a relatively young volcano geologically.
- Tectonic Setting: Part of the Hawaiian hotspot track—Kīlauea is fed by a deep mantle plume, not by tectonic plate boundaries.
FAQs
Q1. What type of volcano is Kīlauea and where is it located?
Kīlauea is a shield volcano known for broad, sloping sides and fluid lava flows. It’s on the southeastern part of Hawaii’s Big Island, inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Q2. Why has Kīlauea been in the news recently?
In August 2025, Kīlauea erupted for the 31st time since December 2024, featuring lava fountains up to 100 meters high and significant lava flows within Halemaʻumaʻu crater, but posing no current threat to populated areas.
Q3. What are the main geographical features of Kīlauea?
Key features include the summit caldera, Halemaʻumaʻu crater, multiple eruptive vents, extensive lava fields, and gas emission zones.
Q4. What is the significance of Kīlauea in science and culture?
Kīlauea offers a live example of shield volcano processes and is deeply tied to Hawaiian legends as the domain of Pele.
Q5. Are there any hazards from Kīlauea’s eruptions?
Currently, eruptions are contained within the park, but volcanic gases and ash can impact air quality and visibility. Authorities monitor these continuously for public safety.
