Kilauea Eruptions, Lava Viewing, December. 2009

Summary: Things have been heating up at the volcano and lava flow viewing sites.

Halema`uma`u Crater Eruption, Volcano Summit in the National Park



A glow can be seen at night that is created by a pool of molten lava that rises and falls and bubbles at the bottom of a 665 deep vent within Halema`uma`u Crater at Volcano National Park. A webcam perched on the caldera's rim is recording this activity, and visitors are flocking to the Jaggar Museum where from the lookout point at night they can see the glow when the lava rises in this pool.

There are also minor explosions from the vent. During the rare moments when all the visitors are quiet, you can hear the crackling! In the daytime we can see the gray plume rising up from the crater and the smaller black clouds that emerge from the explosions. The area near the caldera is blocked off to protect people from the fall out ejected with explosions, and geologists keep close tabs on the volcano for signs of an any impending larger explosions.


Lava Flowing to the Sea - View from the Puna Coast



The viewing area was temporarily closed for a few days last week when a steam plume carrying Pele's hair (thin slivers of black colored glass) and hydrochloric acid was blown inland over the viewing area. With wind conditions closer to normal, the area is now reopened. Visitors are seeing at night a glow where the lava enters the ocean. Currently the delta created by the cooling lava is blocking the view of the actual lava exploding into the water, but about every couple weeks these walls collapse, once again giving everyone a glimpse of this awesome sight. Recent surface outbreaks are happening once again, meaning you can sometimes see red ribbons of lava off in the distance.

If you go: The lava rock trail here is bumpy and the lava's glass like nature makes it sharp, so wear jeans or other protective pants and closed-toe shoes. And do bring a flashlight! The site is open from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., but no one is admitted after 8 p.m. Here are the directions. Conditions and viewing possibilities frequently change, so here's also a number to call for the daily update: 961-8093.