Current Kilauea Volcano Eruption Update 
  Current Eruption Status, Information, and Photos of
Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

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1 May 2010

Views from the ocean entry

The ocean entry that started on April 29 continues, and has expanded in width.
 
One of several lava streams on the shore.
 
Left. The ocean entry that started on April 29 continues, and has expanded in width. Right. One of several lava streams on the shore.

29 April 2010

Image showing first finger of lava approaching the ocean

 

Lava first touched the water at 12:15pm, and this photo shows the first finger of lava approaching the ocean.
 
 
Lava first touched the water at 12:15pm, and this photo shows the first finger of lava approaching the ocean.

28 April 2010

County viewing area composite and views of the active flow field

 

This composite image of the County viewing area in Kalapana combines a thermal image, showing the active flow lobe in red and yellow, with a normal photograph.  The lighter yellow areas are locations of active breakouts at the flow margin, and smoke can be seen originating from the flow front where breakouts are burning vegetation.
 
 
This composite image of the County viewing area in Kalapana combines a thermal image, showing the active flow lobe in red and yellow, with a normal photograph. The lighter yellow areas are locations of active breakouts at the flow margin, and smoke can be seen originating from the flow front where breakouts are burning vegetation.
View looking south at the currently active flow crossing the coastal plain west of Kalapana. The new flow is the silvery lava crossing the photo from lower right to top center where the flow front is burning vegetation. The end of Hwy 130 is visible at upper left.
 
	 Zoomed-in view of the current visitor viewing area at the end of Hwy 130.
 
Left. View looking south at the currently active flow crossing the coastal plain west of Kalapana. The new flow is the silvery lava crossing the photo from lower right to top center where the flow front is burning vegetation. The end of Hwy 130 is visible at upper left.Right. Zoomed-in view of the current visitor viewing area at the end of Hwy 130.
View looking back to the north at the terminus of the active flow as it approaches the forested kipuka at the center of the photo. Hwy 130 is at upper right. The old ocean entry viewing area, open from 2008 to early 2010, is visible near the bottom of the photo just to the right of center. The flows area expected to burn through the kipuka and reach the ocean very close to that old viewing area sometime over the next several days.
 
More distant view looking north at the active flow as it crossing the coastal plain and approaches the ocean. Houses in the Kalapana Gardens subdivision are visible to the right. The lava tube feeding lava to the flow front is delineated by the points of fume at upper left.
 
Left. View looking back to the north at the terminus of the active flow as it approaches the forested kipuka at the center of the photo. Hwy 130 is at upper right. The old ocean entry viewing area, open from 2008 to early 2010, is visible near the bottom of the photo just to the right of center. The flows area expected to burn through the kipuka and reach the ocean very close to that old viewing area sometime over the next several days.Right. More distant view looking north at the active flow as it crossing the coastal plain and approaches the ocean. Houses in the Kalapana Gardens subdivision are visible to the right. The lava tube feeding lava to the flow front is delineated by the points of fume at upper left.

27 April 2010

Lava crossed and buried the County lava viewing trail

Lava, on its southward journey to the ocean, crossed and buried the County lava viewing trail.  The viewing area was relocated a short distance back from the flow margin.
 
A 3 meter (10 ft) high cascade feeds lava into an old quarry at the end of the Kalapana access road, within view of the County viewing area.
 
Left. Lava, on its southward journey to the ocean, crossed and buried the County lava viewing trail. The viewing area was relocated a short distance back from the flow margin. Right. A 3 meter (10 ft) high cascade feeds lava into an old quarry at the end of the Kalapana access road, within view of the County viewing area.

23 April 2010

Thermal/Visible images showing advancement of the active flows

This comparison of thermal images over the coastal plain shows the advancement of the active flows over the past week.  At the top, a normal photograph from April 15 gives reference.  The middle frame, from April 15, shows that the flows were approaching the bottom of the pali last week.  In the bottom frame, from today's overflight, the thermal image shows that the flows have migrated southeast into a kipuka several hundred meters (yards) north of the County viewing area.
 
This comparison of thermal images over the coastal plain shows the advancement of the active flows over the past week. At the top, a normal photograph from April 15 gives reference. The middle frame, from April 15, shows that the flows were approaching the bottom of the pali last week. In the bottom frame, from today's overflight, the thermal image shows that the flows have migrated southeast into a kipuka several hundred meters (yards) north of the County viewing area.

22 April 2010

Activity continues to burn vegetation in the kipuka

Another tree goes up in flames as the lava moves further into the kipuka. Looking closely, you can see the ash from the tree in the smoke column.
 
Another tree goes up in flames as the lava moves further into the kipuka. Looking closely, you can see the ash from the tree in the smoke column.
This photo shows the ropey texture of a recently crusted pahoehoe flow, as well as its superior strength as a natural insulator. The crack is still glowing hot but the lava is no longer moving under the crust.
 
The activity continues to burn vegetation in the kipuka adjacent to the trail, causing the viewing trail to be closed beyond the trailhead. The new viewing area is still very close to the active flows.
 
Left. This photo shows the ropey texture of a recently crusted pahoehoe flow, as well as its superior strength as a natural insulator. The crack is still glowing hot but the lava is no longer moving under the crust.Right. The activity continues to burn vegetation in the kipuka adjacent to the trail, causing the viewing trail to be closed beyond the trailhead. The new viewing area is still very close to the active flows.

20 April 2010

Visible/thermal image showing active flows on the pali

Surface flows on the coastal plain were active a couple hundred meters (yards) from the current viewing trail at the end of Highway 130. The flows are burning along the margin of a large kipuka mauka of the viewing trail.
 
While much of the flow stayed along the margin of the kipuka, a few lobes ventured into the vegetation.
 
Left. Surface flows on the coastal plain were active a couple hundred meters (yards) from the current viewing trail at the end of Highway 130. The flows are burning along the margin of a large kipuka mauka of the viewing trail. Right. While much of the flow stayed along the margin of the kipuka, a few lobes ventured into the vegetation.

15 April 2010

Visible/thermal image showing active flows on the pali

Flows continue to be active on the pali and are advancing southward.  The flow front this morning was approximately 1.4 km (0.9 miles) north of the County viewing area.  Letters A and B denote corresponding points in the photograph (top) and thermal image (bottom).  The active flows show up clearly in the thermal image.
 
Flows continue to be active on the pali and are advancing southward. The flow front this morning was approximately 1.4 km (0.9 miles) north of the County viewing area. Letters A and B denote corresponding points in the photograph (top) and thermal image (bottom). The active flows show up clearly in the thermal image.

HVO geologist takes an active lava sample from within a lava tube

An HVO geologist takes a sample of active lava within a lava tube.  The fluid lava sticks to the heavy hammer head at the end of the cable when it is lowered into the swiftly moving lava stream.  These samples are analyzed routinely to track changes in lava chemistry.
 
An HVO geologist takes a sample of active lava within a lava tube. The fluid lava sticks to the heavy hammer head at the end of the cable when it is lowered into the swiftly moving lava stream. These samples are analyzed routinely to track changes in lava chemistry.

8 April 2010

Quicktime movie of lava surface deep within Halema`uma`u

This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity, captured with a thermal camera that can see through the thick fume.  The lava surface is about 70 meters (230 ft) wide, and remains about 200 meters (660 ft) below the cavity rim.  The surface is mostly crusted, with a slow migration from north to south.  Small spattering sources occasionally break through the thin crust.  Just a few minutes after this video was taken, violent degassing and spattering ensued, disrupting the entire lava surface, and the lava level dropped about 20 meters (66 ft).
 
This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity, captured with a thermal camera that can see through the thick fume. The lava surface is about 70 meters (230 ft) wide, and remains about 200 meters (660 ft) below the cavity rim. The surface is mostly crusted, with a slow migration from north to south. Small spattering sources occasionally break through the thin crust. Just a few minutes after this video was taken, violent degassing and spattering ensued, disrupting the entire lava surface, and the lava level dropped about 20 meters (66 ft).

Active flows on the pali, east of Royal Gardens subdivision

View of the currently active flows on the pali, east of Royal Gardens subdivision.  The corresponding thermal image highlights the active flow area clearly.  The active flows are traveling down the east margin of the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) flow field.  The flows are being fed by a lengthening lava tube, which is marked by a line of fume.  In the distance are the vent (D-vent, at the TEB shield) and Pu`u `Ō `ō.
 
View of the currently active flows on the pali, east of Royal Gardens subdivision. The corresponding thermal image highlights the active flow area clearly. The active flows are traveling down the east margin of the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) flow field. The flows are being fed by a lengthening lava tube, which is marked by a line of fume. In the distance are the vent (D-vent, at the TEB shield) and Pu`u `Ō `ō.
One small breakout among many on the currently active flow field.
 
One small breakout among many on the currently active flow field.

2 April 2010

View of the active vent in Halema`uma`u Crater

View of the active vent in Halema`uma`u Crater. The remains of the visitor overlook fence are on the crater rim just below the vent. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Jaggar Museum on visible on Uwekahuna Bluff in the background. The broad slope of Mauna Loa's east flank forms the skyline.
 
View of the active vent in Halema`uma`u Crater. The remains of the visitor overlook fence are on the crater rim just below the vent. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Jaggar Museum on visible on Uwekahuna Bluff in the background. The broad slope of Mauna Loa's east flank forms the skyline.

Active flows from Kilauea's east rift zone

The terminus of the active flows from Kilauea's east rift zone, the lighter color lava seen here, have reached down to about the 1100-ft elevation just east of the older TEB flow field. If these flows continue to push forward, they will likely end up back on top of the older TEB flow field at the base of Pulama pali close to the end of the Kalapana access road.
 
The terminus of the active flows from Kilauea's east rift zone, the lighter color lava seen here, have reached down to about the 1100-ft elevation just east of the older TEB flow field. If these flows continue to push forward, they will likely end up back on top of the older TEB flow field at the base of Pulama pali close to the end of the Kalapana access road.

19 March 2010

Two-year Anniversary of the Halema`uma`u vent explosion

The ongoing summit eruption at Kīlauea began on this day two years ago.  This thermal image (white is hot, dark blue is cold), taken during today's helicopter overflight, shows the current vent configuration at Halema`uma`u crater.  The vent cavity is about 130 meters (430 ft) wide, and has consumed portions of the wall and floor of Halema`uma`u crater.  The vent cavity resides directly below the former Halema`uma`u Overlook, which was badly damaged in the March 19, 2008, vent opening explosion.  The active lava surface (about 70 meters, or 230 ft, wide) is situated at a depth of about 200 meters (660 ft) below the rim of the vent cavity.  The lava surface consists of large crustal plates—clearly discernable in this image—which slowly migrate from north to south, reflecting circulation in the lava column.  A small degassing hole resides on the floor of the vent cavity as well, just south of the lava surface.
 
The ongoing summit eruption at Kīlauea began on this day two years ago. This thermal image (white is hot, dark blue is cold), taken during today's helicopter overflight, shows the current vent configuration at Halema`uma`u crater. The vent cavity is about 130 meters (430 ft) wide, and has consumed portions of the wall and floor of Halema`uma`u crater. The vent cavity resides directly below the former Halema`uma`u Overlook, which was badly damaged in the March 19, 2008, vent opening explosion. The active lava surface (about 70 meters, or 230 ft, wide) is situated at a depth of about 200 meters (660 ft) below the rim of the vent cavity. The lava surface consists of large crustal plates—clearly discernable in this image—which slowly migrate from north to south, reflecting circulation in the lava column. A small degassing hole resides on the floor of the vent cavity as well, just south of the lava surface.

16 March 2010

Breakouts resume and continue through the week

After a short pause in surface activity late last week, breakouts resumed over the weekend and continued through this week.  Scattered pahoehoe flows were located above the pali, about 1.6 km (1 mile) north of Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
After a short pause in surface activity late last week, breakouts resumed over the weekend and continued through this week. Scattered pahoehoe flows were located above the pali, about 1.6 km (1 mile) north of Royal Gardens subdivision.

12 March 2010

No surface flows on the flow field

No surface flows were active anywhere on the flow field today, due to summit deflation and a reduction in lava supply over the past few days.  Summit inflation resumed yesterday, and an increase in lava supply should lead to resumed breakouts over the next several days.  This photo shows the area of flows that were active over the past week—they can be identified as the lighter colored lobe in the center of the photograph that has cut through the middle of the forested area (the remains of Royal Gardens subdivision).   These flows were advancing across the coastal plain earlier in the week.  Pu`u `Ō `ō, and its persistent degassing plume, can be seen in the upper left corner of the photograph.
 
No surface flows were active anywhere on the flow field today, due to summit deflation and a reduction in lava supply over the past few days. Summit inflation resumed yesterday, and an increase in lava supply should lead to resumed breakouts over the next several days. This photo shows the area of flows that were active over the past week—they can be identified as the lighter colored lobe in the center of the photograph that has cut through the middle of the forested area (the remains of Royal Gardens subdivision). These flows were advancing across the coastal plain earlier in the week. Pu`u `Ō `ō, and its persistent degassing plume, can be seen in the upper left corner of the photograph.

11 March 2010

Quicktime movie showing the active lava pond deep with the Halema`uma`u vent cavity

This Quicktime movie shows the active lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  The lava is upwelling at the northern margin of the pond (the upper margin in this view), and slowly migrating south towards the bottom of the image, where it sinks out of view.  The pond is about 50 m wide.  Small spattering sources appear and disappear occasionally.  This video was taken with a thermal camera (white is hot, dark blue is cold), which is able to see through the thick fume.  No views were possible with the naked eye today due to the fume, and only loud gas roaring sounds could be heard.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the active lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity. The lava is upwelling at the northern margin of the pond (the upper margin in this view), and slowly migrating south towards the bottom of the image, where it sinks out of view. The pond is about 50 m wide. Small spattering sources appear and disappear occasionally. This video was taken with a thermal camera (white is hot, dark blue is cold), which is able to see through the thick fume. No views were possible with the naked eye today due to the fume, and only loud gas roaring sounds could be heard.

10 March 2010

Thermal image at Halema`uma`u shows the current activity

This image was collected from a thermal camera at the Halema`uma`u Overlook, and shows the current activity at the summit.  The active lava pond, about 40 m across, is situated deep within the vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 m.  The lava surface consists of slowly migrating crustal plates, with a spattering source on the east margin of the pond.  The lava surface is slightly deeper than its usual level, owing to deflation during the current deflation-inflation (DI) cycle.
 
This image was collected from a thermal camera at the Halema`uma`u Overlook, and shows the current activity at the summit. The active lava pond, about 40 m across, is situated deep within the vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 m. The lava surface consists of slowly migrating crustal plates, with a spattering source on the east margin of the pond. The lava surface is slightly deeper than its usual level, owing to deflation during the current deflation-inflation (DI) cycle.

5 March 2010

Lava flow burns vegetation in small kipuka

A lava flow burns what little vegetation is left in this small kipuka at the top of the pali.
 
A lava flow burns what little vegetation is left in this small kipuka at the top of the pali.

Visible/Infrared image of the current flow field

The FLIR image on the right is a close-up infrared image of the current flow field, shown on the left.
 
The FLIR image on the right is a close-up infrared image of the current flow field, shown on the left.

25 February 2010

Fume sources on the TEB flow field and an overplating pāhoehoe flow

The upper TEB flow field, looking south.  The fuming hole in the foreground is the TEB vent.  The other fume sources, which help delineate the lava tube, are coming from collapsed areas down the tube system.
 
A small active pāhoehoe flow overplating an older 'a'ā flow on the upper TEB flow field.  There were a few small scattered breakouts above the pali, but the majority of the surface activity was flowing through Royal Gardens and onto the coastal plain.
 
Left. The upper TEB flow field, looking south. The fuming hole in the foreground is the TEB vent. The other fume sources, which help delineate the lava tube, are coming from collapsed areas down the tube system.Right. A small active pāhoehoe flow overplating an older 'a'ā flow on the upper TEB flow field. There were a few small scattered breakouts above the pali, but the majority of the surface activity was flowing through Royal Gardens and onto the coastal plain.

19 February 2010

Active lava flow continue to creep across the coastal plain

Lava, showing up here as the light colored area, continues to creep across the coastal plain toward the national park, having now reached about 1.3 km (0.8 miles) out from the base of the pali.
 
The lava flows on the coastal plain, which show up as the light colored flows in the foreground, are erupted into the TEB tube system from the D fissure which first opened up in July 2007. This vent is faintly visible as a fuming source in the background near the upper left corner of the photo. Smaller fuming sources between vent and coastal plain mark the trace of the TEB tube.
 
Left. Lava, showing up here as the light colored area, continues to creep across the coastal plain toward the national park, having now reached about 1.3 km (0.8 miles) out from the base of the pali.Right. The lava flows on the coastal plain, which show up as the light colored flows in the foreground, are erupted into the TEB tube system from the D fissure which first opened up in July 2007. This vent is faintly visible as a fuming source in the background near the upper left corner of the photo. Smaller fuming sources between vent and coastal plain mark the trace of the TEB tube.

12 February 2010

Active lava flows within Royal Gardens subdivision and onto the coastal plain

Lava flows remain active within the Royal Gardens subdivision and onto the coastal plain below. The number of surface flows has decreased however, due in part to a probable decrease in activity related to the ongoing deflation of Pu`u `Ō `ō, and because the new lava tube branch feeding the flows is becoming better developed.
 
As the lava tube becomes better established, the surface flows on the pali will probably die out while the flows on the coastal plain continue to move toward the ocean.
 
Left. Lava flows remain active within the Royal Gardens subdivision and onto the coastal plain below. The number of surface flows has decreased however, due in part to a probable decrease in activity related to the ongoing deflation of Pu`u `Ō `ō, and because the new lava tube branch feeding the flows is becoming better developed.Right. As the lava tube becomes better established, the surface flows on the pali will probably die out while the flows on the coastal plain continue to move toward the ocean.
The currently active flows on the pali continue to chip away at the few remaining streets in the beleaguered Royal Gardens subdivision. Those visible here are pretty much all that's left, with the exception of one small kipuka out of sight to the right.
 
The currently active flows on the pali continue to chip away at the few remaining streets in the beleaguered Royal Gardens subdivision. Those visible here are pretty much all that's left, with the exception of one small kipuka out of sight to the right.

3 February 2010

Six channelized flows meander down the pali to the Royal Gardens subdivision

Six channelized flows meander down a steep portion of the pali, burning vegetation in the remaining portion of Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
Six channelized flows meander down a steep portion of the pali, burning vegetation in the remaining portion of Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
Six channelized flows meander down a steep portion of the pali, burning vegetation in the remaining portion of Royal Gardens subdivision.
Areas of the forest go up in flames as the 'a'ā flow pushes its way through the vegetation at the base of the pali, and flows onto the coastal plain.
 
Areas of the forest go up in flames as the 'a'ā flow pushes its way through the vegetation at the base of the pali, and flows onto the coastal plain.
 
Areas of the forest go up in flames as the 'a'ā flow pushes its way through the vegetation at the base of the pali, and flows onto the coastal plain.
The largest and eastern-most active channel spreads out near the base of the pali.
 
As the slope decreases, the 'a'ā flows fan out onto the coastal plain.
 
Left. The largest and eastern-most active channel spreads out near the base of the pali. Right. As the slope decreases, the 'a'ā flows fan out onto the coastal plain.

29 January 2010

Active pāhoehoe flow in the Royal Gardens subdivision and clear view in Pu`u `Ō `ō crater

The active front of a pāhoehoe flow near the intersection of Pikake and Warrior Street, in the Royal Gardens subdivision.  The road in the lower portion of the photo is the last remaining piece of Pikake Street.
 
A relatively clear view into Pu`u `Ō `ōcrater, looking NNE.  Several persistent fuming sources are visible in the crater, including the source of a small lava flow near the crater's center.  The dark area trending east-west at the bottom of the crater is a small lava flow that erupted between January 13 and January 19.
 
Left. The active front of a pāhoehoe flow near the intersection of Pikake and Warrior Street, in the Royal Gardens subdivision. The road in the lower portion of the photo is the last remaining piece of Pikake Street. Right.A relatively clear view into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, looking NNE. Several persistent fuming sources are visible in the crater, including the source of a small lava flow near the crater's center. The dark area trending east-west at the bottom of the crater is a small lava flow that erupted between January 13 and January 19.

22 January 2010

'A'ā flow stalled in Royal Gardens subdivision

The 'a'ā flow that was active in the upper reaches of Royal Gardens subdivision on January 19 had stalled by today.  The flow can be identified as the dark flow terminating near the center of the photograph.  The flow front had extended well into the subdivision, almost reaching the level of Plumeria Street.  About 400 m to the west of this flow, at the west end of Plumeria, is the last occupied structure in Royal Gardens, visible by the red roof.  Pu`u `Ō `ō can be seen in the upper right of the photograph.
 
The 'a'ā flow that was active in the upper reaches of Royal Gardens subdivision on January 19 had stalled by today. The flow can be identified as the dark flow terminating near the center of the photograph. The flow front had extended well into the subdivision, almost reaching the level of Plumeria Street. About 400 m to the west of this flow, at the west end of Plumeria, is the last occupied structure in Royal Gardens, visible by the red roof. Pu`u `Ō `ō can be seen in the upper right of the photograph.

19 January 2010

Thick vog blankets Halema`um`ua vent

Fume from the erupting vent in Halema`uma`u blankets the summit of Kīlauea in thick vog.
 
Fume from the erupting vent in Halema`uma`u blankets the summit of Kīlauea in thick vog.

Active terminus on the western side of TEB in Royal Gardens Subdivision

	Kīlauea's east rift zone eruption site.  Pu`u `Ō `ō is to the right, and the TEB vent and upper tube system is to the left and behind Pu`u `Ō `ō.
 
The terminus of the eastern branch of the one active flow above the pali. Pu`u `Ō `ō is at the top in the center with the TEB vent to the right.
 
Left. Kīlauea's east rift zone eruption site. Pu`u `Ō `ō is to the right, and the TEB vent and upper tube system is to the left and behind Pu`u `Ō `ō. Right.The terminus of the eastern branch of the one active flow above the pali. Pu`u `Ō `ō is at the top in the center with the TEB vent to the right.
	The terminus of the more vigorous western branch of the active flow on the western side of the TEB flow field near the top of the Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
Close-up of the front of the channelized 'a'ā flow on the western side of the TEB flow.
 
Left. The terminus of the more vigorous western branch of the active flow on the western side of the TEB flow field near the top of the Royal Gardens subdivision. Right.Close-up of the front of the channelized 'a'ā flow on the western side of the TEB flow.

14 January 2010

Views into Halema`um`ua vent showing the ponded surface and vigorous spattering

	The lava surface rose to its highest level in at least a year. The ponded surface covered most of the bottom the collapse pit in the floor of Halema`uma`u, and was probably more than 100 m across.
 
Much of the time, however, the lava level was much lower, forming rapidly moving river of lava that cascaded into a deeper hole on the north side of the pit floor.
 
Left. The lava surface rose to its highest level in at least a year. The ponded surface covered most of the bottom the collapse pit in the floor of Halema`uma`u, and was probably more than 100 m across. Right.Much of the time, however, the lava level was much lower, forming rapidly moving river of lava that cascaded into a deeper hole on the north side of the pit floor.
	The lava surface was typically topped by vigorous spattering.
 
The lava surface was typically topped by vigorous spattering.
 
The lava surface was typically topped by vigorous spattering.
	The lava surface was typically topped by vigorous spattering.
 
Occasionally, a small dome fountain briefly formed on the lava surface.
 
Left. The lava surface was typically topped by vigorous spattering.Right.Occasionally, a small dome fountain briefly formed on the lava surface.
	At lower lava levels, large lava falls formed where lava cascaded down into a deeper opening.
 
At one point, as the ponded lava began to drain away, a vortex formed on the lava surface. The curved streaks around the spattering point at the bottom of the image show where lava is beginning to move in a clockwise direction.
 
Left. At lower lava levels, large lava falls formed where lava cascaded down into a deeper opening. Right.At one point, as the ponded lava began to drain away, a vortex formed on the lava surface. The curved streaks around the spattering point at the bottom of the image show where lava is beginning to move in a clockwise direction.
	The lava whirlpool is even better developed here and has migrated toward the north.
 
With further draining, deep opening are exposed on the eastern side of the pit floor and the lava river pouring off into a deep hole on the north side of the pit.
 
Left. The lava whirlpool is even better developed here and has migrated toward the north.Right.With further draining, deep opening are exposed on the eastern side of the pit floor and the lava river pouring off into a deep hole on the north side of the pit.

13 January 2010

Quicktime thermal movie showing the entire floor of the Halema`uma`u vent

This Quicktime movie shows video collected with a thermal camera during two helicopter overflights of the Halema`uma`u vent.  The high vantage point allowed a view of the entire floor of the vent cavity, which is not possible from the ground.  Also, the thermal camera can 'see' through the thick fume that normally obscures the vent to the naked eye.  The first half of the video shows observations on January 7, when a dome fountain on the floor of the vent cavity was feeding a wide, vigorously flowing lava stream towards the north.  The second half of the video shows observations on January 13, at which point the lava stream had disappeared and two degassing holes were active.  The northern hole (on the right) appears to have lava just below the rim.
 
This Quicktime movie shows video collected with a thermal camera during two helicopter overflights of the Halema`uma`u vent. The high vantage point allowed a view of the entire floor of the vent cavity, which is not possible from the ground. Also, the thermal camera can "see" through the thick fume that normally obscures the vent to the naked eye. The first half of the video shows observations on January 7, when a dome fountain on the floor of the vent cavity was feeding a wide, vigorously flowing lava stream towards the north. The second half of the video shows observations on January 13, at which point the lava stream had disappeared and two degassing holes were active. The northern hole (on the right) appears to have lava just below the rim.

View of Pu`u `Ō `ō and the TEB vent

	View of Pu`u `Ō `ō and the TEB vent looking northwest.  There is a distinctive separation between the two plumes coming from Pu`u `Ō `ō.  The east wall vent is creating the plume closest to the east rim, and the larger plume is coming from a combination of several other vents inside the crater.  The TEB vent is putting off the wispy plume in the foreground.
 
Two HVO geologists are standing on the east rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō cone, triangulating the depth of several degassing vents inside the crater.  An infrared camera is being used to see the vents through the fume.  The plume in the background is coming from the east wall vent.
 
Left. View of Pu`u `Ō `ō and the TEB vent looking northwest. There is a distinctive separation between the two plumes coming from Pu`u `Ō `ō. The east wall vent is creating the plume closest to the east rim, and the larger plume is coming from a combination of several other vents inside the crater. The TEB vent is putting off the wispy plume in the foreground. Right.Two HVO geologists are standing on the east rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō cone, triangulating the depth of several degassing vents inside the crater. An infrared camera is being used to see the vents through the fume. The plume in the background is coming from the east wall vent.

7 January 2010

View of Waikupanaha lava delta

View of the inactive Waikupanaha lava delta.  There has been no steam plume or lava ocean entry since the first weekend in January.  The viewpoint of this photo is similar to the Dec 17 and Dec 29 photos on the website (when the entry was active).
 
View of the inactive Waikupanaha lava delta. There has been no steam plume or lava ocean entry since the first weekend in January. The viewpoint of this photo is similar to the Dec 17 and Dec 29 photos on the website (when the entry was active).

7 January 2010

Spectacular eruptive activity deep within Halema`uma`u Crater

Spectacular eruptive activity has been occurring deep within the collapse pit in Halema`uma`u Crater at Kīlauea's summit. At times, a river of lava poured into a deeper plunge pool of lava, which had a dome fountain on its right-hand side.
 
Spectacular eruptive activity has been occurring deep within the collapse pit in Halema`uma`u Crater at Kīlauea's summit. At times, a river of lava poured into a deeper plunge pool of lava, which had a dome fountain on its right-hand side.
The bottom of the collapse pit is roughly 285 meters (935 feet) below the rim of Halema`uma`u, from which this photo was taken.
 
Over the last several days, lava has episodically risen up to cover the bottom of the collapse pit, as shown here.
 
Left. The bottom of the collapse pit is roughly 285 meters (935 feet) below the rim of Halema`uma`u, from which this photo was taken. Right.Over the last several days, lava has episodically risen up to cover the bottom of the collapse pit, as shown here.
	A bathtub ring of black lava record the high-lava mark at the bottom of the pit.
 
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Jaggar Museum are tiny bumps at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano in the background of this photo.
 
Left. A bathtub ring of black lava record the high-lava mark at the bottom of the pit. Right.The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Jaggar Museum are tiny bumps at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano in the background of this photo.
A particularly clear view reveals the walls of the collapse pit above the lava surface. The lava surface is roughly 200 meters (656 feet) below the floor of Halema`uma`u Crater, which is the smooth surface in the background.
 
A particularly clear view reveals the walls of the collapse pit above the lava surface. The lava surface is roughly 200 meters (656 feet) below the floor of Halema`uma`u Crater, which is the smooth surface in the background.

29 December 2009

Awesome aerial view comparing Pu`u `Ō `ō with 2007

Portions of the northwest rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō have collapsed over the past few years, with the most recent known collapse this past October. Compare this photo from 2007 to the one taken today-the red line shows where the crater rim is now.
 
Comparison of this photo with the previous shows how much of the crater rim has fallen into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater over the past few years. The most recent collapse in October removed the summit of the cone, reducing the height of Pu`u `Ō `ō by a few meters (yards).
 
Left. Portions of the northwest rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō have collapsed over the past few years, with the most recent known collapse this past October. Compare this photo from 2007 to the one taken today-the red line shows where the crater rim is now. Right.Comparison of this photo with the previous shows how much of the crater rim has fallen into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater over the past few years. The most recent collapse in October removed the summit of the cone, reducing the height of Pu`u `Ō `ō by a few meters (yards).
Southerly winds offered decent views of the collapse pits on the west flank of Pu`u `Ō `ō. The TEB vent is the heavily fuming vent beyond Pu`u `Ō `ō to the right, and the active tube system extends to the right out of the image frame.
 
This is the upper-most of several active breakouts from the lava tube system that started over this past weekend. Pu`u `Ō `ō is at the upper right.
 
Left. Southerly winds offered decent views of the collapse pits on the west flank of Pu`u `Ō `ō. The TEB vent is the heavily fuming vent beyond Pu`u `Ō `ō to the right, and the active tube system extends to the right out of the image frame. Right.This is the upper-most of several active breakouts from the lava tube system that started over this past weekend. Pu`u `Ō `ō is at the upper right.
Two other breakouts are visible in this photo. The nearer is the lighter colored flow at the center of the image, and it is no longer active. The other is at the base of the pali just beyond and it continues to creep slowly forward.
 
The Waikupanaha ocean entry remains active with its typical white steam plume blowing inland. The Hawaii County viewing area is marked by the white dots just below and left of the image center. The viewing area trailhead is at the white structure at the far right.
 
Left. Two other breakouts are visible in this photo. The nearer is the lighter colored flow at the center of the image, and it is no longer active. The other is at the base of the pali just beyond and it continues to creep slowly forward. Right.The Waikupanaha ocean entry remains active with its typical white steam plume blowing inland. The Hawaii County viewing area is marked by the white dots just below and left of the image center. The viewing area trailhead is at the white structure at the far right.

28 December 2009

Spectacular Quicktime movie showing a draining event in the lava pond within the Halema`uma`u vent

This Quicktime movie shows a draining event in the lava pond within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  The lava column exhibited cycles of filling and draining of the vent cavity, with each cycle lasting a few minutes.  As the pond drains, lava cascades into a small hole on the east side (right) of the cavity floor.  Also, lava that was covering a large bench to the west of the main pond drains back, with large plates of crust sliding over the edge.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a draining event in the lava pond within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity. The lava column exhibited cycles of filling and draining of the vent cavity, with each cycle lasting a few minutes. As the pond drains, lava cascades into a small hole on the east side (right) of the cavity floor. Also, lava that was covering a large bench to the west of the main pond drains back, with large plates of crust sliding over the edge.

21 December 2009

Nightshot movie showing a filling and draining cycle event in the Halema`uma`u vent

Lava within the vent cavity in Halema`uma`u crater continues to be active, and occasionally displays remarkable filling and draining cycles.  This Quicktime movie shows the draining portion of one of these cycles, captured in 'nightshot' mode in order to see through the thick fume.  The video begins with a wide surface of chaotic, agitated lava, with vigorous upwelling and spattering.  The lava surface is about 30 m wide. Eventually, the lava begins to drain into a hole on the floor of the vent cavity, as spattering continues.  Each filling and draining cycle lasted about 5 minutes.
 
Lava within the vent cavity in Halema`uma`u crater continues to be active, and occasionally displays remarkable filling and draining cycles. This Quicktime movie shows the draining portion of one of these cycles, captured in "nightshot" mode in order to see through the thick fume. The video begins with a wide surface of chaotic, agitated lava, with vigorous upwelling and spattering. The lava surface is about 30 m wide. Eventually, the lava begins to drain into a hole on the floor of the vent cavity, as spattering continues. Each filling and draining cycle lasted about 5 minutes.

17 December 2009

Awesome aerial view of two active areas of Kīlauea, and Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea

An aerial view looking north at two active areas of Kīlauea.  Pu`u `Ō `ō crater is in the foreground, Mauna Loa (left) and Mauna Kea (right) are in the background.  The fume source near the base of Mauna Loa (at Kīlauea's summit) is from the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent.  The wind is blowing the plume trace toward the northeast, partially obscuring the view of Mauna Kea.
 
Although there are no surface flows anywhere on the flow field, lava continues to flow through the Waikupanaha lava tube and enter the ocean.
 
Left. An aerial view looking north at two active areas of Kīlauea. Pu`u `Ō `ō crater is in the foreground, Mauna Loa (left) and Mauna Kea (right) are in the background. The fume source near the base of Mauna Loa (at Kīlauea's summit) is from the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent. The wind is blowing the plume trace toward the northeast, partially obscuring the view of Mauna Kea. Right.Although there are no surface flows anywhere on the flow field, lava continues to flow through the Waikupanaha lava tube and enter the ocean.
South winds allow for a different perspective of the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent.
 
A beautiful example of sulfur crystals that have grown around a small fumarole near the southeast rim of Halema`uma`u crater.  The vent is about 0.3 m (1 foot) long.
 
Left. South winds allow for a different perspective of the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent. Right.A beautiful example of sulfur crystals that have grown around a small fumarole near the southeast rim of Halema`uma`u crater. The vent is about 0.3 m (1 foot) long.

2 December 2009

Cooperating winds show rare glimpse into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater

Thanks to cooperating winds, views into Pu`u `Ō `ō Crater were only slightly obscured by fume today.  These photos show a rare glimpse of the rubble covered walls and floor of the crater.  The piece of equipment on the rim of the crater is the Pu`u `Ō `ō webcam, which is available to view on the Webcams page of the HVO website.  The photo on the left was taken looking south, the photo on the right looking southwest.
 
Thanks to cooperating winds, views into Pu`u `Ō `ō Crater were only slightly obscured by fume today.  These photos show a rare glimpse of the rubble covered walls and floor of the crater.  The piece of equipment on the rim of the crater is the Pu`u `Ō `ō webcam, which is available to view on the Webcams page of the HVO website.  The photo on the left was taken looking south, the photo on the right looking southwest.
 
Thanks to cooperating winds, views into Pu`u `Ō `ō Crater were only slightly obscured by fume today. These photos show a rare glimpse of the rubble covered walls and floor of the crater. The piece of equipment on the rim of the crater is the Pu`u `Ō `ō webcam, which is available to view on the Webcams page of the HVO website. The photo on the left was taken looking south, the photo on the right looking southwest.
Aerial view of the Waikupanaha (large plume) and West Waikupanaha ocean entries.  The West Waikupanaha entry spans the coastline where the numerous small, wispy plumes are visible.  The entries remain active as lava continues to enter the ocean through both lava tubes and surface flows.
 
Aerial view of the Waikupanaha (large plume) and West Waikupanaha ocean entries. The West Waikupanaha entry spans the coastline where the numerous small, wispy plumes are visible. The entries remain active as lava continues to enter the ocean through both lava tubes and surface flows.

21 November 2009

Quicktime movie showing a small explosive event in the Halema`uma`u vent

This Quicktime movie (at x2 speed) shows a small explosive event in the Halema`uma`u vent at 9:20am.  The explosion was immediately preceded by a portion of the vent rim collapsing into the vent cavity.  The brown plume rises rapidly from the vent, and in the full resolution video large particles can be seen ejected in front of the plume.  In the video shown here, it is possible to see some of these particles impact the crater wall—look for several small white puffs to appear on the crater wall just ahead of the rising brown plume (about 7-9 seconds into the video clip).  No ejecta was found at the Halema`uma`u Overlook, indicating that few, if any particles, reached the crater rim.
 
This Quicktime movie (at x2 speed) shows a small explosive event in the Halema`uma`u vent at 9:20am. The explosion was immediately preceded by a portion of the vent rim collapsing into the vent cavity. The brown plume rises rapidly from the vent, and in the full resolution video large particles can be seen ejected in front of the plume. In the video shown here, it is possible to see some of these particles impact the crater wall—look for several small white puffs to appear on the crater wall just ahead of the rising brown plume (about 7-9 seconds into the video clip). No ejecta was found at the Halema`uma`u Overlook, indicating that few, if any particles, reached the crater rim.

20 November 2009

Three separate steam plumes merge into one at Waikupanaha

At the Waikupanaha ocean entry (left), three separate steam plumes merge into one as the wind blows the steam offshore.  The west Waikupanaha entry is spread out over a larger area with at least 5 separate lava entry points.  This photo was taken looking southeast.
 
Standing at the former time lapse camera site on the rim of Pool 1 of the perched channel, geologists measure the depth of the March 2009 collapse.   A hammer head was attached to a steel cable and lowered over the edge until it hit the floor of the collapse pit.  When the hammer hit the bottom, the cable was marked, and the depth was measured at 16.5 m (54 ft) deep.
 
Left. At the Waikupanaha ocean entry (left), three separate steam plumes merge into one as the wind blows the steam offshore. The west Waikupanaha entry is spread out over a larger area with at least 5 separate lava entry points. This photo was taken looking southeast. Right.Standing at the former time lapse camera site on the rim of Pool 1 of the perched channel, geologists measure the depth of the March 2009 collapse. A hammer head was attached to a steel cable and lowered over the edge until it hit the floor of the collapse pit. When the hammer hit the bottom, the cable was marked, and the depth was measured at 16.5 m (54 ft) deep.

19 November 2009

Quicktime movie showing lava within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity

This Quicktime movie shows lava within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 m below the vent rim.  The lava surface, with is about 20 m wide, is extremely vigorous, with constant roiling and semi-continuous spattering.  Spatter deposited on the walls around the lava surface creates a hot, unstable surface, which can be seen to disintegrate as large blocks break off and fall into the lava.
 
This Quicktime movie shows lava within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 m below the vent rim. The lava surface, which is about 20 m wide, is extremely vigorous, with constant roiling and semi-continuous spattering. Spatter deposited on the walls around the lava surface creates a hot, unstable surface, which can be seen to disintegrate as large blocks break off and fall into the lava.

15 November 2009

Open channel of lava and scattered breakouts at Waikupanaha ocean entry

A small open channel of lava was entering the water at one of two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area.
 
A small open channel of lava was entering the water at one of two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area.
This photo is looking east towards the three ocean entry points active today.  The most distant, and most vigorous, is the Waikupanaha entry, which has been active since March 2008.  In the foreground are two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area, which has been active over the past few weeks.
 
Scattered breakouts, like the one shown here, continue to be active on the coastal plain and are situated west of the main Waikupanaha tube and just inland of the west Waikupanaha ocean entry.
 
Left. This photo is looking east towards the three ocean entry points active today. The most distant, and most vigorous, is the Waikupanaha entry, which has been active since March 2008. In the foreground are two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area, which has been active over the past few weeks. Right.Scattered breakouts, like the one shown here, continue to be active on the coastal plain and are situated west of the main Waikupanaha tube and just inland of the west Waikupanaha ocean entry.

 

20 November 2009

Three separate steam plumes merge into one at Waikupanaha

At the Waikupanaha ocean entry (left), three separate steam plumes merge into one as the wind blows the steam offshore.  The west Waikupanaha entry is spread out over a larger area with at least 5 separate lava entry points.  This photo was taken looking southeast.
 
Standing at the former time lapse camera site on the rim of Pool 1 of the perched channel, geologists measure the depth of the March 2009 collapse.   A hammer head was attached to a steel cable and lowered over the edge until it hit the floor of the collapse pit.  When the hammer hit the bottom, the cable was marked, and the depth was measured at 16.5 m (54 ft) deep.
 
Left. At the Waikupanaha ocean entry (left), three separate steam plumes merge into one as the wind blows the steam offshore. The west Waikupanaha entry is spread out over a larger area with at least 5 separate lava entry points. This photo was taken looking southeast. Right.Standing at the former time lapse camera site on the rim of Pool 1 of the perched channel, geologists measure the depth of the March 2009 collapse. A hammer head was attached to a steel cable and lowered over the edge until it hit the floor of the collapse pit. When the hammer hit the bottom, the cable was marked, and the depth was measured at 16.5 m (54 ft) deep.

19 November 2009

Quicktime movie showing lava within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity

This Quicktime movie shows lava within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 yards below the vent rim.  The lava surface, with is about 20 yards wide, is extremely vigorous, with constant roiling and semi-continuous spattering.  Spatter deposited on the walls around the lava surface creates a hot, unstable surface, which can be seen to disintegrate as large blocks break off and fall into the lava.
 
This Quicktime movie shows lava within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 yards below the vent rim. The lava surface, with is about 20 yards wide, is extremely vigorous, with constant roiling and semi-continuous spattering. Spatter deposited on the walls around the lava surface creates a hot, unstable surface, which can be seen to disintegrate as large blocks break off and fall into the lava.

15 November 2009

Open channel of lava and scattered breakouts at Waikupanaha ocean entry

A small open channel of lava was entering the water at one of two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area.
 
A small open channel of lava was entering the water at one of two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area.
This photo is looking east towards the three ocean entry points active today.  The most distant, and most vigorous, is the Waikupanaha entry, which has been active since March 2008.  In the foreground are two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area, which has been active over the past few weeks.
 
Scattered breakouts, like the one shown here, continue to be active on the coastal plain and are situated west of the main Waikupanaha tube and just inland of the west Waikupanaha ocean entry.
 
Left. This photo is looking east towards the three ocean entry points active today. The most distant, and most vigorous, is the Waikupanaha entry, which has been active since March 2008. In the foreground are two entry points at the west Waikupanaha entry area, which has been active over the past few weeks. Right.Scattered breakouts, like the one shown here, continue to be active on the coastal plain and are situated west of the main Waikupanaha tube and just inland of the west Waikupanaha ocean entry.

6 November 2009

Lava continues at Waikupanaha and surface activity at Kalapana access road

Lava continues to flow into the ocean at the well-established Waikupanaha ocean entry.  About 700 yards to the west (up the coastline in this photograph), the new ocean entry puts off a small plume that is barely visible from this vantage point.  Surface flows (light grey flows) in between the two ocean entries were only 100 yards shy of reaching the ocean, but did not appear active from the air.
 
Surface activity continued in several small areas above the Kalapana access road, burning more vegetation in the forested kipuka.  The trailhead to the county viewing area sits at the end of what remains of the access road, shown here at the top-middle portion of the photograph.
 
Left. Lava continues to flow into the ocean at the well-established Waikupanaha ocean entry. About 700 yards to the west (up the coastline in this photograph), the new ocean entry puts off a small plume that is barely visible from this vantage point. Surface flows (light grey flows) in between the two ocean entries were only 100 yards shy of reaching the ocean, but did not appear active from the air. Right.Surface activity continued in several small areas above the Kalapana access road, burning more vegetation in the forested kipuka. The trailhead to the county viewing area sits at the end of what remains of the access road, shown here at the top-middle portion of the photograph.

4 November 2009

Awesome sites at Waikupanaha ocean entry

Activity at the west Waikupanaha ocean entry, where lava reached the ocean this past weekend, continues.  The entry spans about 200 yards, with many small lava streams entering the water.
 
One of the entry points, on the east side of the west Waikupanaha entry.
 
Left. Activity at the west Waikupanaha ocean entry, where lava reached the ocean this past weekend, continues. The entry spans about 200 yards, with many small lava streams entering the water. Right.One of the entry points, on the east side of the west Waikupanaha entry.
On the east margin of the entry, lobes were advancing over a small black sand beach.
 
Breakouts continued near the County lava viewing trail.  This breakout, which is burning a downed hala tree, was about 300 yards west of the trailhead.
 
Left. On the east margin of the entry, lobes were advancing over a small black sand beach. Right.Breakouts continued near the County lava viewing trail. This breakout, which is burning a downed hala tree, was about 300 yards west of the trailhead.

3 November 2009

Several collapses exposed more of the lava deep within Halema`uma`u vent

Several collapses early this morning exposed more of the lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  For the last several days, glowing and spattering holes (top image) have been active on the floor of the vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 yards below the vent rim.  At 3:06 am, a partial collapse of the floor created a single large opening within which lava was vigorously spattering (middle image).  The opening enlarged further with another collapse around 6 am, which improved the view of the circulating lava pond (bottom image).  These images are from the Halema`uma`u Overlook webcam, which can be viewed via the 'webcams' link at the top of this page.
 
Several collapses early this morning exposed more of the lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity. For the last several days, glowing and spattering holes (top image) have been active on the floor of the vent cavity, at a depth of about 200 yards below the vent rim. At 3:06 am, a partial collapse of the floor created a single large opening within which lava was vigorously spattering (middle image). The opening enlarged further with another collapse around 6 am, which improved the view of the circulating lava pond (bottom image). These images are from the Halema`uma`u Overlook webcam, which can be viewed via the "webcams" link at the top of this page.

Eruption-viewing opportunities change constantly, so refer to this page often. Those readers planning a visit to Kilauea or Mauna Loa volcanoes can get much useful information from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

 

Kilauea Update: 23 October 2009

Lava flow crossed the former Kalapana access road

A lava flow crossed the former Kalapana access road around 1:45 am on October 23, 2009.  Although this flow was not moving by the afternoon, the road continued to burn.
 
A lava flow crossed the former Kalapana access road around 1:45 am on October 23, 2009. Although this flow was not moving by the afternoon, the road continued to burn.

22 October 2009

Aerial view of the summit and surface flows at the coast

Aerial view into the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent.  A single glowing hole on the floor of the vent was visible due to the steep angle and temporary break in fume.  The glowing hole is the faint orange dot a little below the center of the photograph.
 
Surface flows on the coastal plain are burning vegetation in the kipuka adjacent to the former Kalapana access road.  The eastern most active flow (the shiny area putting off smoke and fume just below the center of the photo), has not yet reached the old road.
 
Left. Aerial view into the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent. A single glowing hole on the floor of the vent was visible due to the steep angle and temporary break in fume. The glowing hole is the faint orange dot a little below the center of the photograph. Right. Surface flows on the coastal plain are burning vegetation in the kipuka adjacent to the former Kalapana access road. The eastern most active flow (the shiny area putting off smoke and fume just below the center of the photo), has not yet reached the old road.

21 October 2009

Awesome image! - a narrow finger invades a thickly vegetated kipuka

A persistent breakout on the pali has fed a narrow lobe of pahoehoe lava that has slowly advanced across the coastal plain over the past week.  This active lobe today was within 50 yards of the former location of the Kalapana access road, which is about 700 yards north of the coast.  This breakout was largely flowing over the existing flow field, so there was no significant flow field expansion.
 
Minor fingers of lava active on the edge of the existing flow field caused small areas of flow field expansion, amounting to no more than a few tens of yards.  Here, a narrow finger invades a thickly vegetated kipuka, cascading down a steep slope and ponding in a small depression.  Hissing and crackling sounds, and small methane bursts, were common.
 
Left. A persistent breakout on the pali has fed a narrow lobe of pahoehoe lava that has slowly advanced across the coastal plain over the past week. This active lobe today was within 50 yards of the former location of the Kalapana access road, which is about 700 yards north of the coast. This breakout was largely flowing over the existing flow field, so there was no significant flow field expansion. Right. Minor fingers of lava active on the edge of the existing flow field caused small areas of flow field expansion, amounting to no more than a few tens of yards. Here, a narrow finger invades a thickly vegetated kipuka, cascading down a steep slope and ponding in a small depression. Hissing and crackling sounds, and small methane bursts, were common.

16 October 2009

Plumes at Halema`uma`u Overlook and Pu`u `Ō `ō

View of the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent looking southwest.  Although the plume looks relatively thin, it is still too thick to see into the vent with the naked eye
 
Due to a northerly wind direction, a glimpse of the south wall of Pu`u `Ō `ō can be seen through the fume.  The very distinct plume in the bottom of the picture is coming from the east wall vent.
 
Left. View of the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent looking southwest. Although the plume looks relatively thin, it is still too thick to see into the vent with the naked eye. Right. Due to a northerly wind direction, a glimpse of the south wall of Pu`u `Ō `ō can be seen through the fume. The very distinct plume in the bottom of the picture is coming from the east wall vent.

Shots of TEB flow field and Waikupanaha lava delta

A wide shot of the TEB flow field and Waikupanaha lava delta.  Recent breakouts have made it to the coastal plain on the eastern margin of the flow (light gray colored flow in the middle of the photo).
 
The lava is entering the ocean in two places along the Waikupanaha lava delta.  Since the two entries are so close to each other, the plume can either look like one or two entries, from a distance.
 
Left. A wide shot of the TEB flow field and Waikupanaha lava delta. Recent breakouts have made it to the coastal plain on the eastern margin of the flow (light gray colored flow in the middle of the photo). Right. The lava is entering the ocean in two places along the Waikupanaha lava delta. Since the two entries are so close to each other, the plume can either look like one or two entries, from a distance.

8 October 2009

Lava continues to flow at the Waikupanaha ocean entry

Steep aerial view of the Waikupanaha ocean entry with lava entering the water along a broad front.
 
Southerly winds pushed much of the fume out of the Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, permitting some of the best views of the crater since July 2007. The Pu`u `Ō `ō webcam is a small, light-colored dot on the crater rim at the upper left corner of the photo. The view is toward the east.
 
Left. Steep aerial view of the Waikupanaha ocean entry with lava entering the water along a broad front. Right. Southerly winds pushed much of the fume out of the Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, permitting some of the best views of the crater since July 2007. The Pu`u `Ō `ō webcam is a small, light-colored dot on the crater rim at the upper left corner of the photo. The view is toward the east.
View from over Kīlauea's southwest rift zone looking east at the plume rising from Halema'uma'u.
 
View of the fuming collapse crater in Halema'uma'u. The Halema'uma'u overlook-not open to tourist visitation-is at the upper right corner of the photo.
 
Left. View from over Kīlauea's southwest rift zone looking east at the plume rising from Halema'uma'u. Right. View of the fuming collapse crater in Halema'uma'u. The Halema'uma'u overlook-not open to tourist visitation-is at the upper right corner of the photo.

3 October 2009

Quicktime movie showing the disappearance of the lava pond within Halema`uma`u

This Quicktime movie shows the disappearance of the lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity during the early morning hours of October 3.  The lava surface undergoes two filling and draining cycles, and then retreats to deeper levels in the conduit, completely out of view, around 2 am.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the disappearance of the lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity during the early morning hours of October 3. The lava surface undergoes two filling and draining cycles, and then retreats to deeper levels in the conduit, completely out of view, around 2 am.

2 October 2009

Quicktime movie showing cycles of filling and draining within Halema`uma`u

This Quicktime movie shows lava pond activity within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity captured with the low-light camera situated at the Halema`uma`u Overlook.  The entire night of Oct 1-2, 2009, is shown here in 26 seconds, so the speed of the video is increased considerably.  You can see many cycles of filling and draining, with each cycle lasting about two hours.  There is also alternating vigor at two distinct spattering sources (one on the right side of the image, and a second near the center of the image).  The process controlling filling and draining cycles is not fully understood, but is thought to be related to variations in gas content in the conduit.  Images from this camera can be viewed in real-time by clicking on the link for 'webcams' at the top of this page and choosing the Halema`uma`u Overlook camera.
 
This Quicktime movie shows lava pond activity within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity captured with the low-light camera situated at the Halema`uma`u Overlook. The entire night of Oct 1-2, 2009, is shown here in 26 seconds, so the speed of the video is increased considerably. You can see many cycles of filling and draining, with each cycle lasting about two hours. There is also alternating vigor at two distinct spattering sources (one on the right side of the image, and a second near the center of the image). The process controlling filling and draining cycles is not fully understood, but is thought to be related to variations in gas content in the conduit. Images from this camera can be viewed in real-time by clicking on the link for "webcams" at the top of this page and choosing the Halema`uma`u Overlook camera.

1 October 2009

Lava continues to flow at the Waikupanaha ocean entry

Lava continues to flow through a tube to the ocean, reaching the water at the Waikupanaha ocean entry.  This photo shows the Waikupanaha plume, emanating from three streams of lava entering the water at the front of the lava delta.
 
A closer view of the Waikupanaha delta, where each plume source represents a separate stream of lava entering the water.
 
Left. Lava continues to flow through a tube to the ocean, reaching the water at the Waikupanaha ocean entry. This photo shows the Waikupanaha plume, emanating from three streams of lava entering the water at the front of the lava delta. Right. A closer view of the Waikupanaha delta, where each plume source represents a separate stream of lava entering the water.
Breakouts restarted several days ago at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision, after a brief hiatus earlier this week.  This photo has captured a small finger of pāhoehoe flowing into an old skylight.  An associated Quicktime movie posted on this page shows the motion of the flow.
 
An HVO geologist uses a rock hammer to sample an active pāhoehoe toe for geochemical analysis.  The lava is immediately quenched in a bucket of water to freeze the sample in its pristine state.
 
Left. Breakouts restarted several days ago at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision, after a brief hiatus earlier this week. This photo has captured a small finger of pāhoehoe flowing into an old skylight. An associated Quicktime movie posted on this page shows the motion of the flow. Right. An HVO geologist uses a rock hammer to sample an active pāhoehoe toe for geochemical analysis. The lava is immediately quenched in a bucket of water to freeze the sample in its pristine state.

Quicktime movie showing fluid motion of pāhoehoe flow at Royal Gardens subdivision

This video shows the remarkable fluid motion of a finger of pāhoehoe flowing into an old skylight at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision.  The movement of the viscous lava resembles that of soft-serve ice cream.
 
This video shows the remarkable fluid motion of a finger of pāhoehoe flowing into an old skylight at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision. The movement of the viscous lava resembles that of soft-serve ice cream.

30 September 2009

Quicktime movie showing vigorous spattering deep within Halema`uma`u vent

This Quicktime movie shows vigorous spattering at the northeast margin of the lava pond that is deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  The lava surface, cut by incandescent cracks, is slowly migrating towards the southeast (down in this image).  The lava pond has been visible the last several nights in the Halema`uma`u Overlook webcam (see 'webcams' link above).
 
This Quicktime movie shows vigorous spattering at the northeast margin of the lava pond that is deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity. The lava surface, cut by incandescent cracks, is slowly migrating towards the southeast (down in this image). The lava pond has been visible the last several nights in the Halema`uma`u Overlook webcam (see 'webcams' link above).

Quicktime movie showing collapse of the unstable walls within Halema`uma`u vent

This Quicktime movie shows spattering on the northeast margin of a small lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  The video was shot in 'nightshot' mode, which provides improved views through the thick fume at night.  Each spatter burst represents a gas bubble, or bubbles, breaking at the surface.
 
This Quicktime movie shows two separate rockfalls impacting and disrupting the active lava pond in Halema`uma`u. Rockfalls here result from collapse of the unstable walls of the vent cavity, and are a common occurrence. The first rockfall impacts the lava surface vertically, while the second features small vertical impacts followed by a slide of material that forces the lava surface to slosh towards the north.

29 September 2009

Quicktime movie showing spattering deep within Halema`uma`u vent

This Quicktime movie shows spattering on the northeast margin of a small lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  The video was shot in 'nightshot' mode, which provides improved views through the thick fume at night.  Each spatter burst represents a gas bubble, or bubbles, breaking at the surface.
 
This Quicktime movie shows spattering on the northeast margin of a small lava pond deep within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity. The video was shot in "nightshot" mode, which provides improved views through the thick fume at night. Each spatter burst represents a gas bubble, or bubbles, breaking at the surface.

26 September 2009

Quicktime movie showing a brown plume event within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity

This Quicktime movie shows a brown plume event resulting from a collapse within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity.  Later views into the vent cavity with a thermal camera revealed that the floor of the vent cavity—at about 200 yards below the vent rim—had fallen away, deepening the vent cavity even further.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a brown plume event resulting from a collapse within the Halema`uma`u vent cavity. Later views into the vent cavity with a thermal camera revealed that the floor of the vent cavity—at about 200 yards below the vent rim—had fallen away, deepening the vent cavity even further.

24 September 2009

Spectacular views of Kīlauea's Summit and East Rift Zone

This wide-angle shot shows the Halema`uma`u plume rising from the vent and drifting towards the southwest.  Weak to moderate glow has been observed at the vent over the last week.
 
On Kīlauea's east rift zone, lava continues to flow through a tube to the ocean.  Sporadic breakouts from the tube have fed surface flows, like this one, over the past few weeks.  A common source of recent breakouts has been a spot at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision.  This image shows a small finger of pāhoehoe on the east margin of this breakout.
 
Left. This wide-angle shot shows the Halema`uma`u plume rising from the vent and drifting towards the southwest. Weak to moderate glow has been observed at the vent over the last week. Right. On Kīlauea's east rift zone, lava continues to flow through a tube to the ocean. Sporadic breakouts from the tube have fed surface flows, like this one, over the past few weeks. A common source of recent breakouts has been a spot at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision. This image shows a small finger of pāhoehoe on the east margin of this breakout.

17 September 2009

Quicktime movie showing an explosion from the vent in Halema`uma`u

An explosion at 3:13am from the vent in Halema`uma`u ejected hot particles about a hundred yards above the vent rim, and several tens of yards above the Halema`uma`u Overlook.  This Quicktime movie (shown at x2 speed) shows the event captured by a low-light camera in the HVO observation tower.
 
An explosion at 3:13am from the vent in Halema`uma`u ejected hot particles about a hundred yards above the vent rim, and several tens of yards above the Halema`uma`u Overlook. This Quicktime movie (shown at x2 speed) shows the event captured by a low-light camera in the HVO observation tower.
This image shows a frame captured during the 3:13am explosion by the low-light webcam situated at the Halema`uma`u Overlook.  The camera here looks directly downwards into the vent.  Hot particles can be seen deep in the cavity (the small white dots in the center of the image), as well as zooming in front of the camera (particle traces in the upper right portion of the image).  The camera survived the event unscathed.
 
This image shows a frame captured during the 3:13am explosion by the low-light webcam situated at the Halema`uma`u Overlook. The camera here looks directly downwards into the vent. Hot particles can be seen deep in the cavity (the small white dots in the center of the image), as well as zooming in front of the camera (particle traces in the upper right portion of the image). The camera survived the event unscathed.

Tephra sample from 3:13am explosion and view from TEB

An example of tephra ejected during the 3:13am explosion and deposited around the Halema`uma`u Overlook.  The largest particle collected was almost five inches in size, but most particles were less than an inch in size.  The texture indicates these particles were ejected from a fluid lava column, and solidified in the air before impacting the ground.
 
Lava continues to erupt from the TEB vent on Kīlauea's east rift zone.  The vent is on the skyline in the upper right, and points of fume mark the current lava tube.  Lava empties from the tube into the sea at the Waikupanaha ocean entry, shown by the plume in the upper left portion of the photo.  In the foreground are residences in Kalapana.
 
Left. An example of tephra ejected during the 3:13am explosion and deposited around the Halema`uma`u Overlook. The largest particle collected was almost five inches in size, but most particles were less than an inch in size. The texture indicates these particles were ejected from a fluid lava column, and solidified in the air before impacting the ground. Right. Lava continues to erupt from the TEB vent on Kīlauea's east rift zone. The vent is on the skyline in the upper right, and points of fume mark the current lava tube. Lava empties from the tube into the sea at the Waikupanaha ocean entry, shown by the plume in the upper left portion of the photo. In the foreground are residences in Kalapana.

Thermal movie showing a view inside the Halema`uma`u vent cavity

This Quicktime movie shows a view into the Halema`uma`u vent cavity with a thermal camera.  To the naked eye, the vent is entirely obscured by thick fume, but the thermal camera can 'see' through much of this and provide views of the cavity interior.  These views show four puffing holes on the floor of the cavity.  North is to the right.  The 3:13am explosion originated from one of the southerly holes.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a view into the Halema`uma`u vent cavity with a thermal camera. To the naked eye, the vent is entirely obscured by thick fume, but the thermal camera can 'see' through much of this and provide views of the cavity interior. These views show four puffing holes on the floor of the cavity. North is to the right. The 3:13am explosion originated from one of the southerly holes.

13 September 2009

Quicktime movie showing two degassing holes on the floor of Halema`uma`u

This Quicktime movie shows two degassing holes on the floor of the Halema`uma`u cavity. Lava is just below the rim of the two holes, creating frequent spattering which falls around their rims. Within the larger of the two (on the right), lava can be seen vigorously sloshing. For scale, these openings are about 10 yards wide. The first half of the movie is shown in normal mode, with the second half shown in 'nightshot' mode.
 

This Quicktime movie shows two degassing holes on the floor of the Halema`uma`u cavity. Lava is just below the rim of the two holes, creating frequent spattering which falls around their rims. Within the larger of the two (on the right), lava can be seen vigorously sloshing. For scale, these openings are about 10 yards wide. The first half of the movie is shown in normal mode, with the second half shown in 'nightshot' mode.

11 September 2009

Stunning views of Kīlauea's Summit and East Rift Zone vents

View of Halema`uma`u crater from the air, looking west.  Kīlauea's summit vent, which has been active since March 2008, is situated at the south end of the crater.  Today the vent was emitting a robust white plume, which drifted towards the southwest.
 
Kīlauea's east rift zone vent, named the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) vent due to its start on November 21, 2007, is also hosting ongoing activity.  Lava rises from depth at this location, but is normally out of view due to the low shield built over the vent.  Rare views deep into the pit crater, visible here, have shown lava flowing swiftly southwards into the tube system.
 

Left. View of Halema`uma`u crater from the air, looking west. Kīlauea's summit vent, which has been active since March 2008, is situated at the south end of the crater. Today the vent was emitting a robust white plume, which drifted towards the southwest. Right. Kīlauea's east rift zone vent, named the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) vent due to its start on November 21, 2007, is also hosting ongoing activity. Lava rises from depth at this location, but is normally out of view due to the low shield built over the vent. Rare views deep into the pit crater, visible here, have shown lava flowing swiftly southwards into the tube system.

9 September 2009

Quicktime movie showing Halema`uma`u changing of the typical white to dusty brown plume

This Quicktime movie shows a recent instance of the Halema`uma`u changing from its typical white to a dusty brown.  The brown plume events are normally associated with collapses of the cavity walls.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a recent instance of the Halema`uma`u changing from its typical white to a dusty brown. The brown plume events are normally associated with collapses of the cavity walls.

3 September 2009

Actual speed Quicktime movie showing TEB lava stream through a skylight

This Quicktime movie shows a view into the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) lava tube, thanks to a skylight (a hole in the roof of the tube).  The lava stream, which is about two yards below the skylight, is moving swiftly downhill (the video is shown at actual speed), towards the Waikupanaha ocean entry.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a view into the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) lava tube, thanks to a skylight (a hole in the roof of the tube). The lava stream, which is about two yards below the skylight, is moving swiftly downhill (the video is shown at actual speed), towards the Waikupanaha ocean entry.

3 September 2009

Surface lava flows near Royal Gardens subdivison and a skylight

After several weeks without surface lava on the flow field, a new breakout started yesterday (Wednesday, Sept 2, 2009) near the top of the pali above the Royal Gardens subdivision (the shiny patch of lava just above the center of the photo). The flow was picturesque, but not large, and had not traveled very far despite having been active for nearly a day.
 
A skylight on the lava tube above the top of the pali allowed views of the lava stream flowing down-slope. Velocity measurements showed the lava stream to be traveling at 27.5 kph (17 mph).
 
Left. After several weeks without surface lava on the flow field, a new breakout started yesterday (Wednesday, Sept 2, 2009) near the top of the pali above the Royal Gardens subdivision (the shiny patch of lava just above the center of the photo). The flow was picturesque, but not large, and had not traveled very far despite having been active for nearly a day. Right. A skylight on the lava tube above the top of the pali allowed views of the lava stream flowing down-slope. Velocity measurements showed the lava stream to be traveling at 27.5 kph (17 mph).

Infilled delta at Waikupanaha with narrow streams of lava entering the ocean

A small delta collapse at Waikupanaha last Friday (August 28, 2009) had largely been filled in by today. The infilled delta is the lighter colored lava at the center of the photo and is bounded on its left by a small scarp. Several narrow streams of lava were pouring into the ocean along the front of the reconstructed part of the delta creating a broad plume.
 
A small delta collapse at Waikupanaha last Friday (August 28, 2009) had largely been filled in by today. The infilled delta is the lighter colored lava at the center of the photo and is bounded on its left by a small scarp. Several narrow streams of lava were pouring into the ocean along the front of the reconstructed part of the delta creating a broad plume.

27 August 2009

Active terrace of the Waikupanaha delta and a bright skylight

The lower, active terrace of the Waikupanaha delta, seen here, has grown seaward over the last several days, becoming about as large it has ever been. Last year, growth like this often ended with delta collapses that blasted rocks up to a few hundred meters (yards) inland. Though conditions may have changed, the situation at the current delta may especially hazardous.
 
Holes in the roof of a lava tube, like this one here, are called skylights. The deep red incandescence is the surface of the lava stream as it flows toward the ocean at Waikupanaha. The tube roof surrounding this skylight, which is about a meter (yard) across, is very thin, and aerial views show a large cavity beneath the surface in all directions. Skylights like this one should absolutely be avoided.
 
Left. The lower, active terrace of the Waikupanaha delta, seen here, has grown seaward over the last several days, becoming about as large it has ever been. Last year, growth like this often ended with delta collapses that blasted rocks up to a few hundred meters (yards) inland. Though conditions may have changed, the situation at the current delta may especially hazardous. Right. Holes in the roof of a lava tube, like this one here, are called skylights. The deep red incandescence is the surface of the lava stream as it flows toward the ocean at Waikupanaha. The tube roof surrounding this skylight, which is about a meter (yard) across, is very thin, and aerial views show a large cavity beneath the surface in all directions. Skylights like this one should absolutely be avoided.

18 August 2009

View of Pu`u `Ō `ō, TEB and Waikupanaha ocean entry

View looking southeast at Pu`u `Ō `ō cone in the foreground, the TEB vent and upper tube system to the left, and the Waikupanaha ocean entry above Pu`u `Ō `ō in the background.
 
View looking south at the TEB tube and recent flows at the top of the pali. The small collapse pits delineate the trace of the tube in this area. The lighter-colored lava just beyond the pits is part of the series of surface flows that have usually been active on the pali since the beginning of June. None of these flows were active today, however.
 
Left. View looking southeast at Pu`u `Ō `ō cone in the foreground, the TEB vent and upper tube system to the left, and the Waikupanaha ocean entry above Pu`u `Ō `ō in the background. Right. View looking south at the TEB tube and recent flows at the top of the pali. The small collapse pits delineate the trace of the tube in this area. The lighter-colored lava just beyond the pits is part of the series of surface flows that have usually been active on the pali since the beginning of June. None of these flows were active today, however.
One of the more recent surface flows active on the pali burned a new path through the Royal Gardens subdivision along the western edge of the TEB flow field. These flows traveled only a short distance out on to the coastal plain before stagnating in recent days.
 
Though reduced in size, the Waikupanaha ocean entry was active today with a couple of small lava streams entering the ocean. The tube system carrying lava to the ocean can be traced back across the coastal plain and up the pali as a series of widely spaced fume sources. The recent flows on the pali show up much lighter in color than the older lava beneath. Pu`u `Ō `ō is visible on the skyline at the top center of the photo.
 
Left. One of the more recent surface flows active on the pali burned a new path through the Royal Gardens subdivision along the western edge of the TEB flow field. These flows traveled only a short distance out on to the coastal plain before stagnating in recent days. Right. Though reduced in size, the Waikupanaha ocean entry was active today with a couple of small lava streams entering the ocean. The tube system carrying lava to the ocean can be traced back across the coastal plain and up the pali as a series of widely spaced fume sources. The recent flows on the pali show up much lighter in color than the older lava beneath. Pu`u `Ō `ō is visible on the skyline at the top center of the photo.

10 August 2009

Thermal video showing the new gas vent in Halema`uma`u cavity

This Quicktime movie shows the new gas vent which opened yesterday on the floor of the cavity in Halema`uma`u.  Following this reawakening, very faint glow was observed last night for the first time since July 4.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the new gas vent which opened yesterday on the floor of the cavity in Halema`uma`u. Following this reawakening, very faint glow was observed last night for the first time since July 4.

7 August 2009

Breakouts in Royal Gardens subdivision and a small skylight over the lava tube

Breakouts in Royal Gardens subdivision continued this week on both the eastern and western margins of the TEB flow field.  The western breakout, shown here, has cut two swaths through the forest and reached the base of pali.  The flow, which was active this morning, crosses Plumeria Street about 400 yards east of the last occupied structure (red roof in upper left of image) in the subdivision.
 
A small skylight over the lava tube on the coastal plain.
 
Left. Breakouts in Royal Gardens subdivision continued this week on both the eastern and western margins of the TEB flow field. The western breakout, shown here, has cut two swaths through the forest and reached the base of pali. The flow, which was active this morning, crosses Plumeria Street about 400 yards east of the last occupied structure (red roof in upper left of image) in the subdivision. Right. A small skylight over the lava tube on the coastal plain.

Cool thermal/visible image of active flows in Royal Gardens

This image shows the distribution of active flows in Royal Gardens.  In the thermal image (top), active flows are shown as yellow.  Two major breakout areas are easily visible in the thermal image.  The western breakout has cut through vegetation to reach the base of the pali, with the flow front marked by letter A.  The eastern breakout has expanded the eastern margin of the flow field (point C), with the flow front at the base of the pali (point B).  Pu`u `Ō `ō can be seen fuming in the distance, in the upper left of the photograph.
 
This image shows the distribution of active flows in Royal Gardens. In the thermal image (top), active flows are shown as yellow. Two major breakout areas are easily visible in the thermal image. The western breakout has cut through vegetation to reach the base of the pali, with the flow front marked by letter A. The eastern breakout has expanded the eastern margin of the flow field (point C), with the flow front at the base of the pali (point B). Pu`u `Ō `ō can be seen fuming in the distance, in the upper left of the photograph.

31 July 2009

Cool aerial views of Halema`uma`u and Pu`u `Ō `ō crater

View looking southeast toward Kīlauea's broad summit shield from above the northeast rift of Mauna Loa. The wimpy plume from the vent in Halema'uma'u crater is just above center frame.
 
Zoomed-in view of Kīlauea's summit and the plume from the vent in Halema'uma'u.
 
Left. View looking southeast toward Kīlauea's broad summit shield from above the northeast rift of Mauna Loa. The wimpy plume from the vent in Halema'uma'u crater is just above center frame. Right. Zoomed-in view of Kīlauea's summit and the plume from the vent in Halema'uma'u.
Aerial view looking east toward across Kīlauea's summit caldera toward the plume from Halema'uma'u. The summit and enormous southwest flank of Mauna Loa is in the background.
 
Looking down at the vent in Halema'uma'u. The partly-destroyed overlook fence is to the right and about 85 m (280 ft) above the vent opening in the crater floor. The vent opening is 132 m (430 ft) across measured from the lower left side to the upper right side of the photo. The opening is 125 m (410 ft) across measured from lower right to upper left. This view shows how crater floor on the north (upper left) side of the opening remains considerably overhung.
 
Left. Aerial view looking east toward across Kīlauea's summit caldera toward the plume from Halema'uma'u. The summit and enormous southwest flank of Mauna Loa is in the background. Right. Looking down at the vent in Halema'uma'u. The partly-destroyed overlook fence is to the right and about 85 m (280 ft) above the vent opening in the crater floor. The vent opening is 132 m (430 ft) across measured from the lower left side to the upper right side of the photo. The opening is 125 m (410 ft) across measured from lower right to upper left. This view shows how crater floor on the north (upper left) side of the opening remains considerably overhung.
View looking south into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. Heavy fume prevents decent views into the crater, so this is about as good as it gets.
 
View of the heavily fuming TEB vent on Kīlauea's east rift zone. Lava erupts beneath this vent and enter the lava tube system—the string of fume sources leading off into the distance—before being visible at the surface. The tube system carries the lava to the ocean, about 11.5 km (7 miles) away, where it forms the Waikupanaha ocean entry.
 
Left. View looking south into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. Heavy fume prevents decent views into the crater, so this is about as good as it gets.Right. View of the heavily fuming TEB vent on Kīlauea's east rift zone. Lava erupts beneath this vent and enter the lava tube system—the string of fume sources leading off into the distance—before being visible at the surface. The tube system carries the lava to the ocean, about 11.5 km (7 miles) away, where it forms the Waikupanaha ocean entry.
Lava breakouts have been active over the past week on the west side of the TEB flow field in the upper part of Royal Gardens. These are the lightest-colored flows in the upper right quadrant of the photo. A deflation/inflation cycle (DI event) at Kīlauea's summit overnight resulted in a slow-down in activity on the flow field, so there was only minor surface activity today. The flows are coming down to the east of the last occasionally-occupied house in the subdivision (the red-roofed structure in the photo).
 
Despite the slow-down in activity this morning, lava continues to enter the ocean at Waikupanaha where a small, unstable delta clings to the sea cliff. Fume and white staining at least partly traces the tube system upslope to the Royal Gardens subdivision on the slope in the upper left-hand side of the photo. Fume from the TEB vent is on the skyline just above the pali, and Pu`u `Ō `ō is the small cone on the skyline on the left edge of the photo.
 
Left. Lava breakouts have been active over the past week on the west side of the TEB flow field in the upper part of Royal Gardens. These are the lightest-colored flows in the upper right quadrant of the photo. A deflation/inflation cycle (DI event) at Kīlauea's summit overnight resulted in a slow-down in activity on the flow field, so there was only minor surface activity today. The flows are coming down to the east of the last occasionally-occupied house in the subdivision (the red-roofed structure in the photo).Right. Despite the slow-down in activity this morning, lava continues to enter the ocean at Waikupanaha where a small, unstable delta clings to the sea cliff. Fume and white staining at least partly traces the tube system upslope to the Royal Gardens subdivision on the slope in the upper left-hand side of the photo. Fume from the TEB vent is on the skyline just above the pali, and Pu`u `Ō `ō is the small cone on the skyline on the left edge of the photo.

29 July 2009

Large plume at Waikupanaha ocean entry and sampling from a large skylight

Wide shot of the TEB flow field on the pali.  Breakouts continue on the east and west flow field margins, along with minor activity in the interior.
 
The Waikupanaha ocean entry continues to produce a large plume, while the Kupapa`u entry (not pictured) remains inactive following last week's DI event on July 19.
 
Left. Wide shot of the TEB flow field on the pali. Breakouts continue on the east and west flow field margins, along with minor activity in the interior. Right. The Waikupanaha ocean entry continues to produce a large plume, while the Kupapa`u entry (not pictured) remains inactive following last week's DI event on July 19.
Large skylight just below the split in the main TEB lava tube.  The Waikupanaha ocean entry plume is in the background.
 
Geologist using the head of a sledge hammer attached to a cable to sample from the skylight.
 
Left. Large skylight just below the split in the main TEB lava tube. The Waikupanaha ocean entry plume is in the background. Right. Geologist using the head of a sledge hammer attached to a cable to sample from the skylight.

23 July 2009

Active surface flows in Royal Gardens subdivision and cool view of the channel forming a tube

Scattered surface flows continued to be active on the pali in Royal Gardens subdivision.  This flow was fed by a small, steep channel in the upper left of the photograph.  Portions of the flow were invading adjacent forest, sparking small fires.
 
A narrow channel directs lava down the pali into a small breakout.
 
Left. Scattered surface flows continued to be active on the pali in Royal Gardens subdivision. This flow was fed by a small, steep channel in the upper left of the photograph. Portions of the flow were invading adjacent forest, sparking small fires.Right. A narrow channel directs lava down the pali into a small breakout.
A close-up view of the channel, which is beginning to crust over to form a tube.
 
Another portion of the breakout, where lava cascades over a small break in slope.
 
Left. A close-up view of the channel, which is beginning to crust over to form a tube. Right. Another portion of the breakout, where lava cascades over a small break in slope.

16 July 2009

Small breakout near top of Royal Gardens subdivision and Waikupanaha ocean entry

A small breakout near the top of the Royal Gardens subdivision was burning trees near a remnant of Ali'i Avenue this morning. This breakout was coming from the western branch of the lava tube system which is the branch that supplies the Kupapa'u ocean entry. The lighter-colored lava from a breakout that approached Ali'i Avenue a few weeks ago is visible just upslope from the active flow.
 
Most of the active flows in recent weeks have been concentrated on the mid to lower pali in, and to the east of, Royal Gardens. In the past week, some of this activity followed the eastern margin of the TEB flow field, destroying yet another house in the subdivision. Compare this photo with similarly oriented photos from July 1 and June 26. The destroyed house is just a hair up and to the left of the image center.
 
Left. A small breakout near the top of the Royal Gardens subdivision was burning trees near a remnant of Ali'i Avenue this morning. This breakout was coming from the western branch of the lava tube system which is the branch that supplies the Kupapa'u ocean entry. The lighter-colored lava from a breakout that approached Ali'i Avenue a few weeks ago is visible just upslope from the active flow.Right. Most of the active flows in recent weeks have been concentrated on the mid to lower pali in, and to the east of, Royal Gardens. In the past week, some of this activity followed the eastern margin of the TEB flow field, destroying yet another house in the subdivision. Compare this photo with similarly oriented photos from July 1 and June 26. The destroyed house is just a hair up and to the left of the image center.
This up-slope view shows the new flows that expanded the eastern margin of the TEB flow field. The destroyed house is just below and to the right image center.
 
In this close-up of the burned structure, notice how the metal roofing is on top of the lava. The lava had apparently flowed through this part of the building, which was probably a garage, before the framing completely burned and the roof collapsed.
 
Left. This up-slope view shows the new flows that expanded the eastern margin of the TEB flow field. The destroyed house is just below and to the right image center.Right. In this close-up of the burned structure, notice how the metal roofing is on top of the lava. The lava had apparently flowed through this part of the building, which was probably a garage, before the framing completely burned and the roof collapsed.
Despite an abundance of surface activity on the pali, there is still enough flow to supply lava to two ocean entries—Waikupanaha in the foreground and Kupapa'u in the distance. The lower terrace of the Waikupanaha delta seaward of the main sea cliff scarp is about 225 m (245 yards) long and extends 75 m (80 yards) out into the water. The main scarp, as well as the smaller scarp on the lower terrace, were created by delta collapses over the past several months.
 
A beautiful breakout was active on the Waikupanaha delta when we flew over this morning. The lava was pouring into the ocean and creating small littoral explosions that tossed fragmented lava into the air.
 
Left. Despite an abundance of surface activity on the pali, there is still enough flow to supply lava to two ocean entries—Waikupanaha in the foreground and Kupapa'u in the distance. The lower terrace of the Waikupanaha delta seaward of the main sea cliff scarp is about 225 m (245 yards) long and extends 75 m (80 yards) out into the water. The main scarp, as well as the smaller scarp on the lower terrace, were created by delta collapses over the past several months.Right. A beautiful breakout was active on the Waikupanaha delta when we flew over this morning. The lava was pouring into the ocean and creating small littoral explosions that tossed fragmented lava into the air.

10 July 2009

TEB flow field in the upper part of Royal Gardens subdivision

View of the TEB flow field in the upper part of the Royal Gardens subdivision. The only active lava flows seen this morning, visible at the center of the photo, were burning trees along the east side of the TEB flow field. The TEB tube and vent are the fume sources in the background.
 
Ground view of lava flows slowly consuming a small forested kipuka.
 
Left. View of the TEB flow field in the upper part of the Royal Gardens subdivision. The only active lava flows seen this morning, visible at the center of the photo, were burning trees along the east side of the TEB flow field. The TEB tube and vent are the fume sources in the background. Right. Ground view of lava flows slowly consuming a small forested kipuka.

4 July 2009

Happy Fourth of July!

Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u showing the lava surface deep within the cavity

This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface deep within the Halema`uma`u cavity.  The lava surface is relatively sluggish, with little movement and only one spattering source.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface deep within the Halema`uma`u cavity. The lava surface is relatively sluggish, with little movement and only one spattering source.
View of the lava surface within the Halema`uma`u cavity showing a crusted lava surface with spattering from a single source along the northeast margin.
 
A long exposure taken a little later reveals more of the lava surface.
 
Left. View of the lava surface within the Halema`uma`u cavity showing a crusted lava surface with spattering from a single source along the northeast margin. Right. A long exposure taken a little later reveals more of the lava surface.

3 July 2009

Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u showing spattering and sloshing at the ponded lava surface

This Quicktime movie shows a source of minor spattering at the margin of the ponded lava surface within the Halema`uma`u cavity.  Weak sloshing of the lava surface can be seen around the spattering source.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a source of minor spattering at the margin of the ponded lava surface within the Halema`uma`u cavity. Weak sloshing of the lava surface can be seen around the spattering source.

1 July 2009

East rift zone eruption site from vent to ocean entry

View of the east rift zone eruption site from vent to ocean entry. The TEB vent, where the lava erupts and enters the lava tube system, is the large fume source in foreground. The prominent plumes in the background are the ocean entries, with the larger Waikupanaha entry to the left of the smaller Kupapa`u entry. The smaller fume sources between the vent and the ocean entries define the trace of the lava tube system carrying lava across the upper flow field.
 
For the last several weeks, lava flows have been advancing along the eastern side of the active flow field-that part of the flow field created since July 21, 2007, when the current vent first erupted. These flows, seen here as the silvery flows in the center of the photo, remain active near the base of the pali on the eastern edge of the Royal Gardens subdivision. The unoccupied house seen in the photo remains safe for now.
 
Left. View of the east rift zone eruption site from vent to ocean entry. The TEB vent, where the lava erupts and enters the lava tube system, is the large fume source in foreground. The prominent plumes in the background are the ocean entries, with the larger Waikupanaha entry to the left of the smaller Kupapa`u entry. The smaller fume sources between the vent and the ocean entries define the trace of the lava tube system carrying lava across the upper flow field. Right. For the last several weeks, lava flows have been advancing along the eastern side of the active flow field-that part of the flow field created since July 21, 2007, when the current vent first erupted. These flows, seen here as the silvery flows in the center of the photo, remain active near the base of the pali on the eastern edge of the Royal Gardens subdivision. The unoccupied house seen in the photo remains safe for now.

Kīlauea's summit in perspective to smaller view of Halema`uma`u crater

Only minor activity, such as that shown here, was active on Thursday morning (July 1), but Civil Defense officials reported that the amount of activity had increased substantially by nightfall.
 
The active vent at Kīlauea's summit looks relatively small from this perspective, occupying only small portion of the southeast side of Halema`uma`u crater.
 

Left. Only minor activity, such as that shown here, was active on Thursday morning (July 1), but Civil Defense officials reported that the amount of activity had increased substantially by nightfall. Right. The active vent at Kīlauea's summit looks relatively small from this perspective, occupying only small portion of the southeast side of Halema`uma`u crater.

The visitor overlook-the brown fence at the top of the cliff above the vent opening-offers a sense of scale to the actual size of the summit vent.
 
A wispy plume from the summit vent, a consequence of the collapses that occurred on Tuesday, June 30, allowed aerial views into the vent. The Halema`uma`u crater wall is on the left side of the photo with the crater floor to the right. A talus slope is visible extending down from the base of the cliff on the left (southeast) side of the vent to a deeper opening on the right (northwest) side of the vent. Rubble is barely visible within this deeper opening where the lava surface had been visible prior to the collapses.
 
Left. The visitor overlook-the brown fence at the top of the cliff above the vent opening-offers a sense of scale to the actual size of the summit vent. Right. A wispy plume from the summit vent, a consequence of the collapses that occurred on Tuesday, June 30, allowed aerial views into the vent. The Halema`uma`u crater wall is on the left side of the photo with the crater floor to the right. A talus slope is visible extending down from the base of the cliff on the left (southeast) side of the vent to a deeper opening on the right (northwest) side of the vent. Rubble is barely visible within this deeper opening where the lava surface had been visible prior to the collapses.

Before and after collapses of Halema`uma`u crater

A comparison of photos from before and after the collapses, taken by a time-lapse camera positioned on the NE rim of Halema`uma`u Crater, show considerable expansion of the vent opening. The black line in this image shows the shape of the vent rim a few days before the collapses. The vent is now 123 meters (404 feet) wide from this perspective, having increased by 23 meters (75 feet).
 
A comparison of photos from before and after the collapses, taken by a time-lapse camera in the HVO observation tower, also show considerable expansion of the vent opening. Again, the black line in this image shows the shape of the vent rim a few days before the collapses. The vent is now 132 meters (430 feet) wide from this view, representing an increase of 9 meters (30 feet).
 
Left. A comparison of photos from before and after the collapses, taken by a time-lapse camera positioned on the NE rim of Halema`uma`u Crater, show considerable expansion of the vent opening. The black line in this image shows the shape of the vent rim a few days before the collapses. The vent is now 123 meters (404 feet) wide from this perspective, having increased by 23 meters (75 feet). Right. A comparison of photos from before and after the collapses, taken by a time-lapse camera in the HVO observation tower, also show considerable expansion of the vent opening. Again, the black line in this image shows the shape of the vent rim a few days before the collapses. The vent is now 132 meters (430 feet) wide from this view, representing an increase of 9 meters (30 feet).

30 June 2009

Widening of Halema`uma`u vent from a series of collapses

On Tuesday afternoon, June 30, a series of collapses within the vent in Halema`uma`u  led to considerable widening of the vent and choked the vent with rubble. This photo is of the ash cloud from the initial collapse at 1:39 pm.
 
A time-lapse camera about 300 meters (yards) northeast of the vent captured this ash cloud, from a collapse at 2:20 pm, just at it emerged from the vent.
 
Left. On Tuesday afternoon, June 30, a series of collapses within the vent in Halema`uma`u led to considerable widening of the vent and choked the vent with rubble. This photo is of the ash cloud from the initial collapse at 1:39 pm. Right. A time-lapse camera about 300 meters (yards) northeast of the vent captured this ash cloud, from a collapse at 2:20 pm, just at it emerged from the vent.

'Nightshot' mode Quicktime movie of lava surface within the cavity of Halema`uma`u

This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface within the cavity at Halema`uma`u.  Keeping an eye on the lower left portion of the screen, one can see a large rock impacting the lava surface.  This impact appears to trigger degassing and overturning that migrates across a large portion of the lava surface.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface within the cavity at Halema`uma`u. Keeping an eye on the lower left portion of the screen, one can see a large rock impacting the lava surface. This impact appears to trigger degassing and overturning that migrates across a large portion of the lava surface.

29 June 2009

Awesome early morning view of glow in Halema`uma`u crater

Early morning view of glow from the vent in Halema`uma`u crater.
 
Closer view of glow from the vent in Halema`uma`u crater.
 

Left. Early morning view of glow from the vent in Halema`uma`u crater. Right. Closer view of glow from the vent in Halema`uma`u crater.

Breakouts in the Royal Gardens subdivision

Over the past several days, breakouts in the Royal Gardens subdivision have continued to expand the east margin of the flow field.  The flows are slowly covering what is left of several small kipuka.
 
Another view of the active flows as they continue toward the coastal plain.  The shiny flow through the center of the kipuka is no longer active, but the three shiny lobes to the right continue to expand the margin.
 
Left. Over the past several days, breakouts in the Royal Gardens subdivision have continued to expand the east margin of the flow field. The flows are slowly covering what is left of several small kipuka. Right. Another view of the active flows as they continue toward the coastal plain. The shiny flow through the center of the kipuka is no longer active, but the three shiny lobes to the right continue to expand the margin.

26 June 2009

Silvery patches dot the flow field

Dozens of small breakouts, seen here as the silvery patches, dot the flow field near the top of the Royal Gardens subdivision. Tuberose Street and Pakalana Street, which would cross the photo from top to bottom, are buried somewhere beneath these flows.
 
Active flows narrowly missed this abandoned house just off of Queen Avenue between Plumeria Street and Paradise Street.
 
Left. Dozens of small breakouts, seen here as the silvery patches, dot the flow field near the top of the Royal Gardens subdivision. Tuberose Street and Pakalana Street, which would cross the photo from top to bottom, are buried somewhere beneath these flows. Right. Active flows narrowly missed this abandoned house just off of Queen Avenue between Plumeria Street and Paradise Street.
View looking up at the TEB flow field where it crossed through the center of the Royal Gardens subdivision on Pūlama pali.
 
This abandoned house, just off of Paradise Street between Royal Avenue and King Avenue, was burned by lava-sparked fires months ago but buried by new flows in the past few weeks. All that remains are the water tanks, completely surrounded by lava.
 
Left. View looking up at the TEB flow field where it crossed through the center of the Royal Gardens subdivision on Pūlama pali. Right. This abandoned house, just off of Paradise Street between Royal Avenue and King Avenue, was burned by lava-sparked fires months ago but buried by new flows in the past few weeks. All that remains are the water tanks, completely surrounded by lava.
Fragments of pāhoehoe lava, tossed by helicopter rotor wash, get blown into this skylight near the top of Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
Lava continues to pour into the ocean at the Waikupanaha and Kupapa'u ocean entries.
 
Left. Fragments of pāhoehoe lava, tossed by helicopter rotor wash, get blown into this skylight near the top of Royal Gardens subdivision. Right. Lava continues to pour into the ocean at the Waikupanaha and Kupapa'u ocean entries.
Lava samples, for chemical analyses, are collected nearly each week using little more than a rock hammer and a bucket of water.
 
The molten lava, when collected, is about 1150 <sup>o</sup>C (2100 <sup>o</sup>F) and  instantly boils air-temperature water.
 
Left. Lava samples, for chemical analyses, are collected nearly each week using little more than a rock hammer and a bucket of water. Right. The molten lava, when collected, is about 1150 oC (2100 oF) and instantly boils air-temperature water.

25 June 2009

'Nightshot' mode Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u crusted lava surface and occasional spatter

This Quicktime movie shows activity of the lava surface deep within the Halema`uma`u cavity.  The crusted lava surface is moving slowly from northeast to southwest, with occasional bursts of spatter from the margins and cracks.  The first half of the movie is shown at actual speed, with the second half shown at x10 speed to convey the sense of movement and illustrate the oscillations of the lava surface.
 
This Quicktime movie shows activity of the lava surface deep within the Halema`uma`u cavity. The crusted lava surface is moving slowly from northeast to southwest, with occasional bursts of spatter from the margins and cracks. The first half of the movie is shown at actual speed, with the second half shown at x10 speed to convey the sense of movement and illustrate the oscillations of the lava surface.

23 June 2009

Tephra collectors collect typical daily sample and depict a cute smiley face

A typical daily sample from one of the tephra collectors near the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent.  The samples collected are often small in amount, and dominantly ash sized (< 2 mm, or < 0.08 in).  The collector id, time, and date collected are noted on the sample bag.
 
Several pieces of tephra were picked from the sample in the previous picture to show an example of the material found in the collectors.  When the lava level in the vent is high, there are usually spheres, tears, and hair in the sample.  The white pieces in the picture are lithic fragments, which are also found in the collectors and come from the walls of the vent opening.  Since the tephra is so small, this image was taken with a microscope camera.  The tick marks on the top are 1 mm (0.04 in) apart.
 
Left. A typical daily sample from one of the tephra collectors near the Halema`uma`u Overlook vent. The samples collected are often small in amount, and dominantly ash sized (< 2 mm, or < 0.08 in). The collector id, time, and date collected are noted on the sample bag. Right. Several pieces of tephra were picked from the sample in the previous picture to show an example of the material found in the collectors. When the lava level in the vent is high, there are usually spheres, tears, and hair in the sample. The white pieces in the picture are lithic fragments, which are also found in the collectors and come from the walls of the vent opening. Since the tephra is so small, this image was taken with a microscope camera. The tick marks on the top are 1 mm (0.04 in) apart.

22 June 2009

'Nightshot' mode Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u crusted and sluggish lava surface

This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface within the Halema`uma`u cavity, again using 'nightshot' mode to see through the fume.  The lava surface this evening was considerably more crusted and sluggish than on previous nights, and had risen a minor amount compared to much of last week.  The lava migrates from the top of screen towards the bottom, with occasional bubble bursts disrupting the surface.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the lava surface within the Halema`uma`u cavity, again using 'nightshot' mode to see through the fume. The lava surface this evening was considerably more crusted and sluggish than on previous nights, and had risen a minor amount compared to much of last week. The lava migrates from the top of screen towards the bottom, with occasional bubble bursts disrupting the surface.

19 June 2009

TEB lava tube breakout and finger of pāhoehoe invades Royal Gardens

A breakout, active over the past several weeks, from the TEB lava tube overruns more of Royal Gardens subdivision, burning vegetation and burying abandoned structures.  In the distant upper left is the TEB vent, with a line of fuming sources tracing the path of the lava tube.  In the lower right is the intersection of Queen Avenue and Orchid Street.
 
A finger of pāhoehoe invades and buries an abandoned structure in Royal Gardens, near Queen Avenue, as other fingers ignite nearby vegetation.
 
Left. A breakout, active over the past several weeks, from the TEB lava tube overruns more of Royal Gardens subdivision, burning vegetation and burying abandoned structures. In the distant upper left is the TEB vent, with a line of fuming sources tracing the path of the lava tube. In the lower right is the intersection of Queen Avenue and Orchid Street. Right. A finger of pāhoehoe invades and buries an abandoned structure in Royal Gardens, near Queen Avenue, as other fingers ignite nearby vegetation.
An HVO geologist takes a sample of lava from an active pāhoehoe lobe in the upper reaches of Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
The two ocean entries—Waikupanaha and Kupapa`u—remained active this week.  This photo shows several small streams of lava entering the water at the front of the Waikupanaha delta.
 
Left. An HVO geologist takes a sample of lava from an active pāhoehoe lobe in the upper reaches of Royal Gardens subdivision. Right. The two ocean entries—Waikupanaha and Kupapa`u—remained active this week. This photo shows several small streams of lava entering the water at the front of the Waikupanaha delta.

17 June 2009

'Nightshot' mode Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u rolling lava surface

This Quicktime movie shows the roiling lava surface within the cavity in Halema`uma`u.  The video was captured in 'nightshot' mode in order to see through the fume, which obscured viewing by the naked eye.  Vigorous upwelling occurs in the northeast (upper right) corner of the opening, with the southwest corner consisting of passively sloshing, and partly crusted lava.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the roiling lava surface within the cavity in Halema`uma`u. The video was captured in 'nightshot' mode in order to see through the fume, which obscured viewing by the naked eye. Vigorous upwelling occurs in the northeast (upper right) corner of the opening, with the southwest corner consisting of passively sloshing, and partly crusted lava.

13 June 2009

Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u lava lake draining event

This Quicktime movie shows a draining event in the Halema`uma`u lava lake.  Filling and draining cycles have been observed before here, but this video is one of the clearest examples thus far.  The video is shown at actual speed, with draining taking about 40 seconds.  Note the draining is highly unsteady, and proceeds in a step-wise fashion.  These cycles of filling and draining are due to the episodic release of accumulated gas in the conduit.
 
This Quicktime movie shows a draining event in the Halema`uma`u lava lake. Filling and draining cycles have been observed before here, but this video is one of the clearest examples thus far. The video is shown at actual speed, with draining taking about 40 seconds. Note the draining is highly unsteady, and proceeds in a step-wise fashion. These cycles of filling and draining are due to the episodic release of accumulated gas in the conduit.

11 June 2009

Active terminus in Royal Gardens and large plumes from Waikupanaha and Kupapa`u ocean entries

Geologist replaces an existing time-lapse camera after several recent camera failures. The camera looks at the current ocean entries of Waikupanaha (left) and Kupapa`u (right).
 
 The terminus of an active portion of a breakout from the May 29 DI event.  The lava is burning trees and shrubs as it flows through the Royal Gardens subdivision.
 
Left. Geologist replaces an existing time-lapse camera after several recent camera failures. The camera looks at the current ocean entries of Waikupanaha (left) and Kupapa`u (right). Right. The terminus of an active portion of a breakout from the May 29 DI event. The lava is burning trees and shrubs as it flows through the Royal Gardens subdivision.
The Waikupanaha and Kupapa`u ocean entries continue to produce moderate to large steam plumes. The county viewing area is visible between the groups of trees in the lower right corner of the photograph.
 
 A close-up of several lava streams entering the ocean at Waikupanaha.
 
Left. The Waikupanaha and Kupapa`u ocean entries continue to produce moderate to large steam plumes. The county viewing area is visible between the groups of trees in the lower right corner of the photograph. Right. A close-up of several lava streams entering the ocean at Waikupanaha.

8 June 2009

Picturesque view of Halema`uma`u crater

Good weather allows for a clear view of Halema`uma`u crater and the eruption plume.
 
Good weather allows for a clear view of Halema`uma`u crater and the eruption plume.

4 June 2009

Another rare look into Halema`uma`u crater

This Quicktime video shows another rare view of the active lava surface deep within the cavity in Halema`uma`u crater.  The lava is approximately 100 m below the floor of Halema`uma`u.  The lava surface is disrupted by waves, splashes, bubbling and upwelling, with overall lava movement from the upper right to the lower left.
 
This Quicktime video shows another rare view of the active lava surface deep within the cavity in Halema`uma`u crater. The lava is approximately 100 m below the floor of Halema`uma`u. The lava surface is disrupted by waves, splashes, bubbling and upwelling, with overall lava movement from the upper right to the lower left.

Small breakout near Kupapa`u ocean entry and at Royal Gardens subdivision

A deflation-inflation (DI) event produced a surge of lava over the past several days, creating a small breakout on the coastal plain, a few hundred meters inland from the Kupapa`u ocean entry.  The breakout appears as two silvery fingers, one of which has reached the sea cliff.  Between the two fingers, an area of active fuming marks the location of the lava tube feeding the ocean entry.
 
 The surge of lava over the past several days has also created a breakout at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision.  Today, the breakout was still active, and was feeding a number of small channelized pāhoehoe flows radiating out from the breakout point.
 
Left. A deflation-inflation (DI) event produced a surge of lava over the past several days, creating a small breakout on the coastal plain, a few hundred meters inland from the Kupapa`u ocean entry. The breakout appears as two silvery fingers, one of which has reached the sea cliff. Between the two fingers, an area of active fuming marks the location of the lava tube feeding the ocean entry.Right. The surge of lava over the past several days has also created a breakout at the top of Royal Gardens subdivision. Today, the breakout was still active, and was feeding a number of small channelized pāhoehoe flows radiating out from the breakout point.
In this close-up view of the breakout at the top of Royal Gardens, a vigorous lobe of pāhoehoe - fed by a small channel upstream - advances over older flows.
 
 An HVO geologist collects a fresh sample of the active breakout at the top of Royal Gardens, using a rock hammer and water bucket for quenching.  Because the lava was coming directly out of the tube, it was remarkably gas-rich, and had the consistency of marshmallow fluff.
 
Left. In this close-up view of the breakout at the top of Royal Gardens, a vigorous lobe of pāhoehoe - fed by a small channel upstream - advances over older flows. Right. An HVO geologist collects a fresh sample of the active breakout at the top of Royal Gardens, using a rock hammer and water bucket for quenching. Because the lava was coming directly out of the tube, it was remarkably gas-rich, and had the consistency of marshmallow fluff.

Gas sampling site on Halema`uma`u Crater

Geologist sampling gas from a fumarole on the north side of Halema`uma`u Crater.
 
 A second gas sampling site on the west side of Halema`uma`u Crater, informally called the 'smiley face fumarole.'
 
Left. Geologist sampling gas from a fumarole on the north side of Halema`uma`u Crater. Right. A second gas sampling site on the west side of Halema`uma`u Crater, informally called the "smiley face fumarole."

3 June 2009

Rare view into Halema`uma`u vent

Conditions provided a rare view of active lava in the Halema`uma`u vent.  This photograph is looking down into the cavity, and gives a sense of how deep the lava was.  The small area of active, circulating lava was about 100 meters below the crater floor.
 
 Close-up view of the active lava surface.  Lava was emerging in the upper right and flowing at a remarkable rate towards the lower left, where it would disappear from sight.
 
Left. Conditions provided a rare view of active lava in the Halema`uma`u vent. This photograph is looking down into the cavity, and gives a sense of how deep the lava was. The small area of active, circulating lava was about 100 meters below the crater floor. Right. Close-up view of the active lava surface. Lava was emerging in the upper right and flowing at a remarkable rate towards the lower left, where it would disappear from sight.

Awesome Quicktime movie of Halema`uma`u crater

Conditions provided a rare view of active lava in the Halema`uma`u vent.  This photograph is looking down into the cavity, and gives a sense of how deep the lava was.  The small area of active, circulating lava was about 100 meters below the crater floor.
 
This Quicktime movie shows the behavior of the active lava at the base of the cavity in Halema`uma`u crater. Lava emerged in the upper right and flowed towards the lower left. The surface was disrupted by a chaos of waves, splashes, bubble bursts and spattering. The video is shown at actual speed.

Eruption-viewing opportunities change constantly, so refer to this page often. Those readers planning a visit to Kilauea or Mauna Loa volcanoes can get much useful information from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.


 


OCEAN ENTRY - LAVA VIEWING AREA:

Visitors are allowed entry to the viewing area every day from 2 p.m., with the last vehicles admitted at 8:00 p.m. This will allow officials to ensure that everybody is out of the area by 10 p.m.

 The viewing area is closed between 10 pm and 2 pm.  This schedule is subject to change; hazardous conditions may require changes to the schedule or closure.
County of Hawaii - Kilauea Eruption image
- click on map for larger view-

Hawai`i County Civil Defense has set up a new telephone hotline to provide daily updates on viewing at the Kalapana Safe Viewing site.  The lava hotline phone number is 961-8093, which lets you know the lava viewing hours for the day ahead.  The lava hotline automated message is updated every day at 10 a.m.

The Kalapana Safe Viewing program at the volcanic eruption site is a wonderful natural attraction, and the County Civil Defense Agency wants all visitors to enjoy the experience in safety and comfort.  With that in mind, we encourage visitors to prepare not only for sunny days at the lava viewing sight but also for rain.  Please note that there are no shelters at the site in case of rain.

For your comfort and convenience, please prepare for rain keeping in mind any trip hazard:

·        An umbrella and/or

·        Windbreaker or raincoat

Visitors are also strongly advised to take the following gear for both safety and comfort:

·        Bottled water (2-3 quarts or liters per person)

·        Sturdy closed boots or shoes and socks

·        Flashlight (1 per person) and fresh batteries

·        Long pants

·        Sun hat and sunscreen

·        Binoculars (optional)

 

Visitors are reminded to obey all the warning signs and stay within the allowed areas to ensure their safety. The newly formed lava and black sand beach are extremely unstable, and can collapse into the ocean at any time. Visitors must stay well away from the volcanic steam clouds which contain hydrochloric acid and glass particles.

Please note:  There is no cell phone coverage in the viewing area.

We ask that visitors show the greatest courtesy and respect to the local residents and property owners. Please remember never to go off the road or trail, and please dispose of all trash in the garbage cans provided. Guide/interpreters will be on hand in the viewing area to provide information and assistance.  For more information, please call Civil Defense at 935-0031.

For the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory’s eruption updates online, please click on http://lavainfo.us/ .

The Big Island Visitors Bureau has created a new section of its website with all of the information we've been trying to get out to the public. Click on  http://www.bigisland.org/parks/939/volcano-eruption-update .

Recent Kilauea Status Reports, Updates, and Information Releases

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATE
November 21, 2009


PActivity Summary for past 24 hours: A DI event is nearly complete. At the summit, a circulating, bubbling, and spattering lava pond surface was visible in a hole in the vent cavity floor deep beneath Halema`uma`u Crater floor; its level rose several meters covering the entire vent floor before dropping but remaining visible in the Overlook vent Webcam. Sulfur dioxide emission rates from the Halema`uma`u and east rift zone vents remain elevated. Lava flows are active on the coastal plain; lava flows through tubes to the coast and is entering the ocean at two locations west of Kalapana.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: The lava pond continued bubbling and circulating at its low level within a hole in the vent cavity floor deep beneath the vent rim (in the Halema`uma`u Crater floor) until 7:23 pm when it abruptly rose several meters, peaking and covering the entire vent floor at about 7:30 pm, then draining back into the hole nearly an hour later; the lava level in the hole remained higher than it was when the night started but lower than the 7:30 pm peak. Glow is visible from the Jaggar Museum Overlook. This morning, the dense white plume moves to the southwest through beautiful clear skies. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 800 tonnes/day on November 20, still elevated above the 2003-2007 average of 140 tonnes/day. Very small amounts of mostly ash-sized tephra continued to drop out of the plume near the vent.

The summit tiltmeter network recorded weak inflation completing the most recent DI event. The GPS network, which is less sensitive than the tiltmeter network, recorded contraction starting at the beginning of November switching to extension after November 12th.

Seismic tremor levels remained at low values with a drop. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes remained below background levels. Two earthquakes were strong enough to be located on south flank faults.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continued to degas through Pu`u `O`o crater before erupting from the TEB vent, located 2 km to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,300 tonnes/day on November 21, below the 2003-2007 average of 1,700 tonnes/day. Very weak glow was again recorded from the crater last night.

The tiltmeter on the north flank of Pu`u `O`o recorded the switch to DI inflation around 9:30 an yesterday and continued slow inflation. The GPS network, which is less sensitive than the tiltmeter network, recorded continued slow contraction of the cone, amounting to almost 3 cm of contraction over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels at Pu`u `O`o and the TEB vent were at low values.

Lava flows through two tube branches to the coast, across State- and privately-owned land, and was entering the ocean at two general locations - Waikupanaha and west Waikupanaha 700 m (2,300 ft) to the west. Yesterday, HVO geologists found scattered surface flows over the coastal plain and at least one possible surface flow on the pali; a single entry at Waikupanaha and several at the west Waikupanaha location were active. GOES-WEST imagery showed thermal anomalies on the coastal plain suggesting continuing surface flow activity through dawn.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo/activity/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/activity/alertsystem/index.php

Definitions of Terms Used:

glow: light from an unseen source; indirect light.

CD: Hawai`i County Civil Defense

RB2S2BL earthquakes: earthquakes that were recorded but were too small to be located. These quakes have magnitudes less than 1.7 and may only be recorded by one or two seismometers. Recording at a minimum of 4 seismometer sites is required to locate an earthquake.

tonne: metric unit equal to 1,000 kilograms, 2,204.6 lbs, or 1.1 English tons.

tephra: all material deposited by fallout from an eruption-related plume, regardless of size.

ash: tephra less than 2 mm (5/64 inches) in size.

TEB: Thanksgiving Eve Breakout, the designation used for lava flows that started with a breakout on November 21, 2007.

DI tilt event: DI is an abbreviation for 'deflation-inflation' and describes a volcanic event of uncertain significance. DI events are recorded by tiltmeters at Kilauea summit as an abrupt deflation of up to a few microradians in magnitude lasting several hours to 2-3 days followed by an abrupt inflation of approximately equal magnitude. The tilt events are usually accompanied by an increase in summit tremor during the deflation phase. A careful analysis of these events suggests that they may be related to changes in magma supply to a storage reservoir at less than 1 km depth, just east of Halema`uma`u crater. Usually, though not always, these changes propagate through the magma conduit from the summit to the eruption site, as many of the DI events at Kilauea summit are also recorded at a tiltmeter at Pu`u `O`o, delayed by 1-2 hours. DI events often correlate with lava pulses and/or pauses in the eruption at the Pu`u `O`o/July 21/TEB vents.

More definitions with photos can be found at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/about/pglossary/index.php .

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

 

Volcano Live Camera :
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Previous Archived Eruption Updates:

  July 17, 2008    July 16, 2008    July 14, 2008    July 10, 2008    July 7, 2008
  July 5, 2008    July 2, 2008    June 30, 2008
 

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