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Kīlauea Erupts: Lava Fountains Reach 720 Feet
19 Oct
Summary
- Lava fountains soared up to 720 feet during the October 17 eruption.
- The eruption lasted nearly six hours, a significant event after two months.
- Volcanic gases and tephra, including Pele's hair, were released.
On October 17, Hawaii's Kīlauea volcano produced an impressive display of lava fountaining, reaching heights of up to 720 feet (220 meters). This high-intensity eruption lasted nearly six hours, concluding at 9:03 am local time. It was the 55th such episode in the ongoing summit caldera eruption within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which began on December 23, 2024. The event followed a period of less intense activity since the previous fountaining episode on August 25, 2026.
The volcanic plume accompanying the fountaining rose to an estimated 25,000 feet (7,500 meters) above sea level, dispersing volcanic gases and material. While the lava remained within the Halemaʻumaʻu crater, the eruption generated volcanic gases and tephra, including fine ash and volcanic glass strands known as Pele's hair. These can irritate the skin and eyes, though most tephra fall was confined to a closed area of the park.
As of October 18, the USGS reported that the summit eruption had paused, and the volcano's alert level was lowered to ADVISORY. Scientists are continuing to monitor Kīlauea, observing ground deformation and seismic activity for signs of renewed major fountaining events.
