Kilauea, a volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park began erupting Sept. 29. The activity has been contained within the crater so there are some amazing sights.
During the day, visitors can view steam and volcanic gas billowing out of Halemaumau (the summit crater). The park is open 24 hours a day. At night, visitors can be enchanted by the 127-acre lava lakes that cast a reddish orange glow against the walls of the crater and into the dark skies.
According to the national park staff, the best views of eruptions are along Crater Rim Trail. These include Uekahuna (Steaming Bluff), Wahinekapu, Kilauea Overlook and Wahinekapu.
"Seeing the lava rise to the summit of Kilauea's summit is breathtaking. Rhonda Loh, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park superintendent, stated that during the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important for people to behave responsibly, keep their distance from others, and wear masks. We want the park to remain open to all who wish to enjoy this new phase in volcanic activity. However, we cannot do so if everyone follows safety guidelines. We will continue to work closely with USGS scientists to keep up-to-date on volcanic activity. Visitors should be aware that access to the park and eruptive activity could change at any moment.
The park staff recommend that visitors monitor the weather as it can get cold at the summit at 4,000 feet elevation. Volcanic eruptions can be dangerous and change quickly, so visitors should stay on marked trails and overlooks. Also, keep clear of cracks in the earth or cliff edges.
Kilauea was hit by a huge eruption in 2018. It produced hundreds of tremors, sent rivers of lava into surrounding communities, and destroyed more than 300 homes. The park was closed for several weeks to allow volcanic activity to subside and to make repairs.
