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Kilauea Today
By the People, for the People
Kilauea Volcano Erupts in Spectacular Display on Hawaii's Big Island
The iconic volcano has erupted for the 43rd time since December 2024, creating stunning lava fountains and ash plumes.
Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:34pm
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Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes located on Hawaii's Big Island, has erupted again this week, creating dramatic lava fountains reaching up to 1,000 feet high and spewing ash and volcanic fragments. The eruption, the 43rd episode since it began in late 2024, has led to temporary closures in the surrounding national park and on a major highway due to the volcanic activity. While Kilauea's summit is located away from residential areas, past eruptions have caused significant damage, including destroying over 700 homes in 2018.
Why it matters
Kilauea is one of the most closely monitored and studied volcanoes in the world due to its frequent and often spectacular eruptions. These events provide valuable scientific data and insight into volcanic activity, while also drawing visitors from around the globe to witness the natural wonder. However, Kilauea's eruptions can also pose serious risks to nearby communities, underscoring the importance of preparedness and monitoring.
The details
The current eruption of Kilauea began earlier this week, with stunning fountains of glowing molten lava soaring up to 1,000 feet into the air. The volcano's summit is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, away from residential areas, but the eruption has led to temporary closures in the park and on a major highway due to falling ash and volcanic fragments. Kilauea is known for its frequent and dramatic eruptions, with this being the 43rd episode since the current eruption cycle began in December 2024.
- The current eruption of Kilauea began earlier this week.
- Kilauea's last major eruption was in 2018, when large lava flows covered land southeast of the park and destroyed over 700 homes.
- Kilauea has been erupting almost continuously since December 2024, with this being the 43rd episode in the current eruption cycle.
The players
Kilauea
One of the world's most active volcanoes, located on Hawaii's Big Island. Kilauea's name means 'spewing' or 'much spreading' in Hawaiian and it is known for its frequent and dramatic eruptions.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The national park that encompasses Kilauea's summit and surrounding areas, which has had to close temporarily due to the current eruption.
What’s next
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates on any changes to park or road closures as the eruption progresses.
The takeaway
Kilauea's latest eruption is a powerful reminder of the dynamic and unpredictable nature of Hawaii's volcanoes, which have shaped the islands' landscapes and communities for centuries. While these events can be awe-inspiring, they also underscore the importance of preparedness and vigilance when it comes to volcanic activity.
