UPDATE: Eruptive episode 51 at Kīlauea has begun

Editor’s note: This story was updated at 9:31 a.m. on Wednesday.

Episode 51 of lava fountaining in Halemaʻumaʻu at the summit of Kīlauea began at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

Lava fountains are currently erupting from the north vent and reaching heights of about 160 feet above ground level, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Peak fountaining typically occurs 1-2 hours after onset.

North vent fountains are feeding large lava flows onto the floor of Halema’uma’u crater. No fountains or flows are erupting from the south vent at this time.

Initial precursory spattering and a small overflow from the south vent began on July 11, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. After a four-day pause, activity resumed on Tuesday with precursory overflows from both vents.

The National Weather Service reports this morning that low-level winds from the east-northeast would move the plume to the southwest towards Pāhala, and high-level winds from the south would move the higher plume over communities adjacent to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Residents in the area are advised of potential impacts from wind-blown volcanic matter. The Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency advises residents to take precautions if needed, such as disconnecting water catchment systems. Those with respiratory sensitivity should shelter in place or leave the area to avoid elevated gas levels.

No significant activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone.

Episode 50 of the ongoing Halemaʻumaʻu eruption at the summit of Kīlauea ended abruptly at 5:10 p.m. on June 27 after 7 hours of continuous lava fountaining from the north vent.

These eruptive events have been occurring since Dec. 23, 2024.