Kilauea's lava fountain eruption, Episode 41, began at 11:10 a.m. in Halemaumau crater, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. This marks the latest in a series of ongoing eruptions that started on December 23, 2024. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports tephra fall in public areas, with both north and south vent fountains reaching over 1,640 feet tall. Weak southern winds may carry gas and solid material to the north. All activity is confined to Halemaumau crater within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but Hawaii County Civil Defense warns of elevated gas levels and tephra that may affect downwind communities. Residents are advised to avoid the area if they have respiratory sensitivities and to take precautions on roads due to reduced visibility and traffic congestion. The eruption follows several days of low-level activity, with the first overflows from the north vent occurring on the night of January 22nd.
