Nature is putting on a show within a Hawaiian park known for its volcanoes. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park says Kīlauea volcano is erupting for the fifth time in four years.
You can watch a live stream of the volcano in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park here:
According to a press release, the eruption is coming from the summit crater with multiple lava fountains, creating a lake of molten rock. Lava started flowing Sunday afternoon. The national park is located on Hawaii’s Big Island. As of now, all volcanic activity is confined to the park. There is no current threat to any homes or communities.
Not everyone is watching the live stream of the volcano, as the volcanic activity is attracting extra visitors to the park. Park Rangers want to remind everyone about safety precautions and the sacredness of the volcano to the Hawaiian people.
While an eruption is somewhat unpredictable, the optimal viewing of the lava lake and fountains are at Uēkahuna, Kīlauea Overlook and areas along Crater Rim Trail.
Visitors should stay on trails and avoid closed areas. Also, be cautious around cliff edges as they are unstable. Park Rangers also stress that hazardous volcanic gases can be harmful, especially to young children, the elderly, pregnant people and those with respiratory issues.
Finally, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park staff want to remind visitors to “Observe the eruption quietly and respect Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners who honor the sacred legacy of this land and give them space to practice their customs.”
Here are some additional tips to observe a volcano safely.
