Lava Fountaining Resumes at Kilauea’s Halemaumau Crater
Lava Fountaining Resumes at Kilauea’s Halemaumau Crater
US · Published Jul 16, 2026
Lava fountaining has returned to Kilauea’s Halemaumau crater for the 51st time since the ongoing eruption began on December 23,
According to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), the latest episode started at 8:30 a.m. local time on July 15, 2026, from the north vent at the volcano’s summit. Lava fountains initially reached heights of about 160 feet (49 meters) and later surged to 950 feet (290 meters) within two hours. Winds from the east-northeast at 5-10 mph are dispersing volcanic gases and tephra, including ash and Pele’s hair, toward the west-southwest. The National Weather Service in Honolulu issued a special weather statement warning of potential tephra fallout in nearby communities, including Pahala and Naalehu, as well as along Highway 11 southwest of the Volcano area.

Impact & Risks

Communities downwind of the eruption, particularly in the Ka’u district, may experience varying levels of ash, Pele’s hair, and other lightweight tephra. These materials can pose respiratory risks, contaminate water catchment systems, and reduce visibility on roads. The fallout is expected to be most significant within three miles of the vents, but smaller particles may travel farther, potentially affecting areas adjacent to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Residents and visitors are advised to monitor conditions closely and prepare for potential disruptions.

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