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yesterday

Kīlauea’s Latest Eruption Lofts Lava to New Heights, Prompts Rare Ashfall Warning

A rare ashfall warning alongside targeted closures limited local impacts as scientists continue close monitoring of the ongoing eruptive cycle.

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Episode 43 of the ongoing Halema‘uma‘u eruption at Kīlauea summit ended at 6:21 p.m. HST on March 10. About 15 minutes after the end of the episode, USGS scientists serviced a webcam near Keanakāko‘i on the southeast caldera rim. Active lava flows continued to slowly advance along the crater floor, and stand out here in the low lighting. The north and south vents (upper left) continue to emit a plume of volcanic gases and water vapor. USGS photo taken by L. DeSmither.

Overview

  • Kīlauea’s March 10 summit episode, counted as the 43rd since late 2024, began in the morning and lasted about nine hours, according to new technical reporting.
  • Lava fountains were widely reported around 1,000–1,300 feet, and IFLScience reported a peak near 540 meters (1,770 feet), the highest of the current cycle.
  • The National Weather Service issued a rare Ashfall Warning as tephra and ash spread downwind, with reports of fragments falling across the national park and nearby communities.
  • Park managers closed summit areas and authorities partially shut Route 11 after falling debris created hazards, with notable fallout at Uēkahuna overlook, Kīlauea Military Camp, Highway 11 and the Volcano Golf Course area.
  • USGS/HVO said activity was confined to Halemaʻumaʻu and not threatening homes, and models suggest another episode could occur later this month or in early April.