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Kīlauea Erupts for 44th Time With Towering Lava Fountains, Prompting Closures

Southerly winds raise the risk of tephra falling on downwind areas.

Overview

  • USGS reported the 44th summit episode with large fountains erupting from the south Halemaʻumaʻu crater.
  • Southerly winds near the vents could carry volcanic gas and ash toward downwind areas north of the summit.
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park closed its entrance and a section of Highway 11 was shut, with officials urging motorists to avoid the area.
  • USGS warned that tephra fall could increase as fountaining strengthens, including hair‑thin glass fibers known as Pele’s Hair.
  • Scientists are tracking lava that may continue to move downslope, and there were no confirmed reports of homes at risk.