Kilauea erupting again as the alert level moves from warning to watch per the USGS Hawaii Volcano Observatory update.
Kīlauea volcano is currently erupting, with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reporting that the new eruption began at approximately 12:30 a.m. HST on Monday, June 3. The eruption is located about a mile south of Kīlauea’s summit caldera and north of the Koae fault system and Hilina Pali Road, within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. This area is quite remote, several miles southwest of the summit caldera and is not accessible by car or trail.
There is no threat to the community as the eruption is contained entirely within the park. In response, the Volcano Alert Level has been elevated from “watch” to “warning,” and the aviation color code has shifted from “orange” to “red.” Consequently, Maunaiki Trail has been closed for safety.
Interestingly, this region last witnessed an eruption in December 1974, which lasted only six hours. Although the current eruption is mostly obscured from the USGS webcams, early morning observers were able to see lava glow from Uekahuna and other overlooks at the summit of Kīlauea, including Volcano House.
Kilauea Erupting Live Stream
The live stream below is from the USGS YouTube channel and is of Halema’uma’u Crater, it is positioned well to capture most activity but it is not guaranteed as no one can predict exact times and location.
The initial stages of volcanic eruptions are characterized by dynamic changes. The webcam images reveal fissures forming at the base of Halemaʻumaʻu crater, resulting in the formation of lava flows on the crater floor. Currently, the activity remains confined to Halemaʻumaʻu, and a reassessment of the hazards will be conducted as the eruption progresses.
How To View Kilauea Eruption
If you’re heading to Hawai’i to witness the spectacular sight of Kīlauea erupting, it’s important to plan your stay carefully to make the most of your visit. While the eruption site is in a remote area, there are numerous vantage points within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park where you can safely observe the volcanic activity.
Discover the best budget hotels on the Big Island of Hawai’i — perfect for every adventurer seeking a memorable stay during this volcanic event.
If you are on the Big Island or plan on visiting you can utilize a wide variety of authorized tours to view the eruption. Use an activity platform to search for highly-rated tour operators. Here are several highly rated helicopter tour companies and private guides that may assist you in getting the best experience.