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Kilauea Erupts Again: Lava Fountains Soar Over 800 Feet in 10‑Hour Event

Kilauea Erupts Again: Lava Fountains Soar Over 800 Feet in 10‑Hour Event
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupting on Jan. 12, 2026. (USGS)

Kilauea erupted Monday on Hawaii's Big Island, sending lava fountains more than 800 feet high in an event that lasted about 10 hours, the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported.

It was Episode 40 in activity that began in December 2024 and the first eruption since Dec. 23, 2025, producing an estimated 7.1 million cubic yards (5.5 million cubic meters) of lava.

Tephra fell in nearby areas but no major damage was reported, and the USGS says monitoring of the volcano continues.

Kilauea on Hawaii's Big Island erupted again on Monday, producing spectacular fountains of lava that rose more than 800 feet during an eruption that lasted roughly 10 hours, the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) reported.

Episode 40 in Ongoing Activity

This was the 40th episode in a series of periodic eruptions that began in December 2024 and the volcano's first recorded eruption since Dec. 23, 2025. According to the HVO, "Episode 40 produced 7.1 million cubic yards (5.5 million cubic meters) of lava during the high fountain eruption."

Local Impacts and Monitoring

Tephra — fragments of rock and volcanic ash thrown out by the eruption — fell in nearby areas at the height of the fountains. Officials reported no major damage from the event. "We continue to closely monitor Kilauea," the USGS added, underscoring ongoing surveillance of the volcano and any potential hazards to residents and visitors.

Note: Residents in communities downwind of volcanic plumes should follow guidance from local officials and the USGS/HVO for safety and health recommendations.

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