Kilauea Volcano Eruption Forces Evacuation in Hawaii

Lava blasted over 650 feet into the air, prompting park closures and ashfall warnings.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:18am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting the towering plume of ash and lava erupting from Kilauea volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii, conveying the overwhelming, sublime scale of the natural disaster through muted earth tones and dramatic lighting.The eruption of Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island serves as a sobering reminder of the island's ongoing geological volatility and the need for vigilance in the face of natural disasters.Kilauea Today

Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island erupted on Thursday, sending lava fountains over 650 feet into the air. The eruption began at 11:10 am local time and continued for over 8 hours, leading officials to evacuate Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and issue ashfall warnings for the surrounding region.

Why it matters

Kilauea is one of the world's most active volcanoes, with dozens of eruptions since 1952. While not uncommon, the powerful eruption and lava fountains pose risks to nearby residents and visitors, requiring swift action to protect public safety.

The details

The eruption began at Kilauea's north vent, sending massive fountains of lava bursting into the air for over 8 hours before subsiding at 7:41 pm. Officials quickly closed Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and evacuated the area, urging people to wear protective clothing to avoid exposure to the falling ash and tephra (small glassy rock fragments). The National Weather Service also issued an ashfall warning for the island's southeast region, cautioning that large, football-sized tephra could fall near the summit.

  • The eruption began at 11:10 am local time on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • The eruption ended at 7:41 pm local time on the same day.

The players

Kilauea

One of the world's most active volcanoes, located on Hawaii's Big Island.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A popular tourist destination that attracts over 1 million visitors per year, which was evacuated and closed due to the eruption.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

The federal agency that monitors and reports on volcanic activity, including providing details on the start and end times of the Kilauea eruption.

National Weather Service

The federal agency that issued an ashfall warning for the island's southeast region in response to the eruption.

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What’s next

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any further volcanic activity or impacts. The national park will remain closed until it is deemed safe to reopen.

The takeaway

The powerful eruption of Kilauea volcano serves as a reminder of the ongoing geological activity and risks posed by Hawaii's volcanoes, which require vigilant monitoring and preparedness to protect residents and visitors.