If the timing is right, visitors to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii could be in for another spectacular view this week.
A new phase of volcanic activity began Tuesday at Kīlauea's Halemaʻumaʻu crater in the park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The eruption started Dec. 23 and has since had 24 episodes of increased activity and lava fountaining, or about one a week. The last episode ended June 5, after spewing lava fountains up to 1,200 feet high. Some of the episodes have lasted only a few hours, while others have occurred over several days.
"Episode 25 precursory activity began yesterday, June 10, in Halema‘uma‘u and is ongoing," according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's Daily Update on Wednesday. "The forecast window for episode 25 sustained lava fountaining is between today, Wednesday, June 11, and Thursday, June 12."
The update added that the window could change depending on conditions.
Glow was spotted on summit webcams overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, and there were continuing gas-pistoning events at the north vent.
"During gas-pistoning events, gas accumulation causes lava to rise within the north vent, with resulting spattering and lava flows onto the crater floor," the update said. "These events have occurred at a rate of 5-10 per hour."
The current activity doesn't pose a threat to local communities.
"Hawaiian lava flows generally advance slowly downslope, and during this eruption flows have been confined to Halemaʻumaʻu crater and the southwest side of Kaluapele, Kīlauea's summit caldera," according to the update.
One thing to watch out for: Pele's hair, or strands of volcanic glass often produced by lava fountaining activity. These strands can be carried by wind, sometimes in clusters like tumbleweeds, and can cause skin and eye irritation.
Visitors to the area should exercise caution and be prepared for road closures and traffic congestion. Check the park website for the latest updates.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
National parks and their natural resources belong to you. The National Parks Traveler works to ensure you know how these essential places are being cared for.
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Unsubscribe at any time.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
