Hawaii’s Kīlauea Volcano delivered a dramatic display on Sunday, May 25, 2025, as its 23rd eruptive episode since Dec. 2024 sent lava fountains soaring up to 1,000 feet into the air.
The eruption, which began at 4:15 p.m. local time, lasted approximately six hours and remained confined within Halemaʻumaʻu crater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, posing no immediate threat to nearby communities.
A Spectacular Eruption
According to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), the eruption began with lava jets emanating from the north vent, escalating into sustained fountains that reached heights of over 1,000 feet. Approximately an hour later, the south vent activated, producing lava fountains that reached heights of up to 800 feet.
By 10:25 p.m., both vents had ceased activity, marking the end of the episode.
The eruption generated a plume exceeding 14,000 feet in altitude, containing ash, volcanic rock fragments and Pele’s hair—fine strands of volcanic glass that can cause skin and eye irritation. Residents and visitors are advised to minimize exposure to these materials, especially during windy conditions.
Kīlauea’s current eruptive phase began on Dec. 23, 2024, characterized by episodic lava fountains and flows. Since then, the volcano has experienced 23 such episodes, with the latest being among the most vigorous. All activity has remained within the summit caldera, with no significant changes detected in the East or Southwest Rift Zones.
Following the recent eruption, summit tiltmeters have recorded a return to inflation, and seismic tremor has decreased significantly, indicating a pause in activity. However, HVO scientists note that magma remains near the surface, suggesting the potential for future eruptions in the coming weeks.
Visitor Information and Safety
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park remains open, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the aftermath of the eruption. The USGS provides live webcam feeds of the summit area, allowing remote viewing of ongoing volcanic activity.
While the eruption has captivated tourists and locals alike, officials emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, including avoiding areas with volcanic emissions and being cautious of airborne volcanic glass particles.
