Kilauea Volcano Roars As Lava Overflows Surge Across Its Summit

Kīlauea Volcano is showing intense activity at its summit, with repeated lava overflows from the north vent and lava flows spreading across the surrounding area.

A total of 29 overflows have occurred from the north vent since September 7. They have lasted from 15 minutes to about two hours, with pauses ranging from about 15 minutes to eight hours.

The latest overflow began at 7:27 a.m. HST Wednesday. The overflows have become progressively more vigorous, fed by a dome fountain that reached 15 to 30 feet (5 to 10 meters) high.

Two main lava flows have formed. One traveled about half a mile (1 kilometer) southwest of the north vent, while the other reached less than half a mile (1 kilometer) northeast.

Weak spattering from the north vent was first reported on September 6. Glow was also observed from the north vent between overflows, while occasional glow and flames were seen from the south and west vents.

Tremor continues across the summit, with regular gas piston activity occurring about every five minutes. Two small earthquakes were recorded beneath the summit region during the past 24 hours.

Summit reinflation has remained highly unsteady since lava fountaining episode 54 on August 25.