The Kīlauea volcano on Hawaiʻi Island is currently in a pause between eruptions. Scientists from the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory expect that episode 39 could start between December 22 and 27. They’ve observed significant inflation in the volcano, measuring over 23 microradians since the last episode.
For those not familiar, the Kīlauea volcano has been actively erupting since December 23, 2024. So far, there have been 38 episodes, with each eruption lasting about 12 hours and separated by pauses that can last up to two weeks.
Currently, scientists are keeping a close watch on Kīlauea. They report seeing consistent glow from a vent in the south, while the north vent has shown little activity. Seismic activity is also noticeable, with tremors occurring every few minutes. These tremors may be linked to gas movement within the volcano.
Interestingly, despite the volcano’s activity, emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the East Rift Zone remain low. This is important because high levels of SO2 can pose health risks. The observatory continues to coordinate with local agencies to ensure safety.
Historically, Kīlauea has a pattern of episodic eruptions, which makes it fascinating to study. This volcano is one of the most active in the world. According to a recent study, scientists have noted a rise in volcanic eruptions globally over the past decade, emphasizing the importance of monitoring such natural phenomena as climate changes occur.
For anyone interested in learning more about volcanic activity, the USGS provides resources and data that detail ongoing monitoring efforts and safety information. You can check their official site for updated information on Kīlauea and other volcanoes.
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