Hawaii County, Hawaii – Information that Kilauea Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, is erupting. United States Geological Survey (USGS).
of Hawaii Volcano Observatory The eruption began at 2 a.m. local time on Monday, prompting the Kilauea Volcano Warning System to be raised to the highest alert level within the closed area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
“The early stages of the eruption are dynamic,” the USGS said.
Webcam images show a series of fissures spewing lava fountains and feeding lava flows at the base of Halemaumau in Kaluaperi, the summit caldera, officials said.
The USGS said activity is currently limited to the summit caldera.
However, high levels of volcanic gases, primarily water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, are the main hazards of concern.
The gas could have widespread effects downwind, causing a visible haze known as volcanic smog, officials said.
Residents and visitors are advised to minimize exposure to volcanic ash and other volcanic particles, which can cause skin and eye irritation.
