Kilauea volcano in Hawaii erupted early this morning, May 16, 2025, with lava fountains reaching up to 1,000 feet. The U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported the high fountaining began at 5:13 a.m. local time.
The activity is confined to Halemaumau Crater within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Lava streams covered roughly 30 to 40% of the crater floor by 6:10 a.m.. The Volcano Alert Level is currently at "WATCH," and the Aviation Color Code is "ORANGE".
This eruption, classified as "episode 22," follows a pattern of short-lived fountaining events. The primary concern remains high levels of volcanic gases, particularly sulfur dioxide. Vog (volcanic smog) can affect air quality miles downwind.
Other hazards include Pele's hair and fine fragments, which can cause skin and eye irritation. Areas near the caldera rim remain dangerous due to unstable crater walls. The area around Halemaumau has been closed to the public since 2007.