Kilauea Volcano Erupts, Forcing Park and Road Closures

Lava fountains and ash rain down on Hawaii's Big Island as the volcano awakens after a period of dormancy.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:20pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and brown, with a towering plume of smoke and ash rising from the center of the frame, dwarfing the surrounding terrain and conveying the overwhelming scale of the natural forces at work.The eruption of Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island serves as a powerful reminder of the island's dynamic geological forces.Kilauea Today

Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island erupted on Thursday, hurling lava hundreds of feet into the air and forcing the temporary closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and a nearby highway. The eruption began around 11am local time, with columns of smoke and flowing lava visible on a livestream. The US Geological Survey estimates that about 3.6 million cubic yards of lava have been released so far.

Why it matters

Kilauea is one of the world's most active volcanoes, and its eruptions can pose significant risks to the local population and infrastructure. This latest eruption highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness in areas prone to volcanic activity.

The details

The National Park Service urged anyone in the area to cover up and use eye protection to limit contact with ash, sharp volcanic fragments known as tephra, and thin glass fibers known as Pele's Hair, which were reported outside the closure area. While the park initially shut its gates on Thursday, the entrance later reopened along with certain sections. Highway 11 has also reopened, though some "volcanic-related safety closures" remain in place.

  • The eruption began around 11am local time on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • Lava fountaining stopped after about 9 hours.

The players

Kilauea

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

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A national park on the Big Island of Hawaii that is home to Kilauea and other active volcanoes.

US Geological Survey

A scientific agency that monitors and studies geological hazards, including volcanoes.

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What’s next

Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any further developments or safety concerns related to the Kilauea eruption.

The takeaway

This eruption of Kilauea serves as a reminder of the ongoing volcanic activity in Hawaii and the need for residents and visitors to remain vigilant and prepared for potential natural disasters in the region.