One of the world’s most closely watched volcanoes, Kīlauea, erupted again on June 11, sending lava fountains more than 1,000 feet into the air and a gas plume up to 20,000 feet above its summit. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that the eruption began at 11:57 a.m. local time from the volcano’s north vent inside the Halemaʻumaʻu crater, with the south vent activating at 1:30 p.m.
The eruption is the 25th discrete episode since Kīlauea entered a new eruptive phase on December 23, 2024. The lava activity on June 11 lasted for over eight hours, with the north vent shutting down around 7:36 p.m. and the south vent concluding by 8:08 p.m. The fountains, clearly visible from designated viewing points within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, attracted large numbers of visitors despite ongoing health and safety advisories.
Gas emissions during this latest episode peaked at an estimated 50,000 to 75,000 metric tonnes of sulfur dioxide per day—more than 40 times higher than average inter-eruptive levels. According to USGS scientists, such emission rates significantly elevate the risk of “vog,” or volcanic smog, especially for downwind communities. Additionally, wind-carried volcanic glass fibers, known as Pele’s hair, continue to pose respiratory hazards near the eruption site.
Despite the dramatic displays of lava and steam, no evacuations have been ordered. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park remains open, with access limited to clearly marked and monitored viewing areas. Park authorities have urged visitors to respect safety guidelines and stay informed through official channels. Real-time monitoring data and livestreams are being maintained by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.
This eruption has so far remained confined to the summit region. No activity has been recorded along the East or Southwest Rift Zones, which have previously led to destructive lava flows in residential areas. Geologists noted inflation-deflation cycles in the summit area during the eruption, indicating continued underground magma movement.
Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, has erupted dozens of times over the past century. Its last major flank eruption in 2018 destroyed more than 700 homes in the Lower Puna District. Since then, summit eruptions have dominated activity, drawing both scientific and tourist attention.
As of June 14, officials continue to monitor conditions closely. Residents and visitors are advised to remain alert to changing air quality and to adhere to health guidance from the Hawai‘i Department of Health and the National Park Service.
