Hawaii's Kīlauea Volcano Enters 49th Eruptive Phase with Towering Lava Fountains

Hawaii's Kīlauea volcano has put on a dramatic display, entering its 49th eruptive phase with lava fountains soaring hundreds of meters into the air. The spectacle on Sunday, June 14, saw volcanic plumes rise approximately 5,500 meters above sea level, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.

The Kīlauea, known as one of the world's most active volcanoes, operates in episodic bursts. Accumulated pressure beneath the summit releases as lava fountains for several hours before activity subsides, only to restart later. This latest sequence, which began on December 23, 2024, has been exceptional. In early June, with its 48th episode, it surpassed the 47 episodes observed during the Puu Oo eruption between 1983 and 1986, becoming the most significant episodic lava fountain eruption in Kīlauea's history.

Currently, the volcanic activity remains contained within a restricted zone of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. However, officials caution the public about the inherent risks, including volcanic gases, lava projectiles, and falling debris. Kīlauea is under heightened surveillance with a volcanic alert level of orange.