11 Sep 2023 | 02:37 PM UTC
US: Officials report increased volcanic activity at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii, as of early Sept. 11
Increased volcanic activity observed at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii, US, as of early Sept. 11. Eruption ongoing; authorities raise alert level.
Event
Officials with the Hawaiin Volcano Observatory have observed increased levels of volcanic activity at the Kilauea Volcano, located in Hawaii on the Island of Hawaii (Big Island), as of early Sept. 11. The observatory has reported that Kilauea began erupting at around 15:15 Sept. 10 and multiple lava fountains are active within the eastern portion of Halema'uma'u crater floor and parts of the summit caldera. The eruption is reportedly confined to the Halema'uma'u crater and authorities have stated that there is currently no threat from the eruption to downslope communities; however, Hawaii Emergency Management has warned that volcanic particles and gases emitted from the volcano could create breathing problems for exposed communities.
The opening phases of eruptions can be dynamic, and the situation could evolve rapidly; further eruptive activity could lead to additional hazards, such as lava flows and rockfalls at the crater, ashfall in surrounding communities, and increased seismic activity. If eruptive vents migrate outside the caldera walls, then lava flows may move rapidly downslope from the summit. Due to the increased volcanic activity, authorities have raised the Volcano Alert Level for Kilauea to warning and the Aviation Color Code for the volcano to Red (in both cases, the highest level on a four-tier scale).
Transport
Plan for possible transport disruptions in the surrounding area, especially if the current eruptive event continues to produce volcanic material and/or lava flows migrate outside the summit caldera. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall, and visibility could be reduced. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace, potentially impacting flights at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), Hilo International Airport (HNL), and other airports across Hawaii. Authorities might temporarily close airport facilities if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Advice
Confirm flights if the eruptive episode continues. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near Kilauea in the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.
