Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano erupted again on October 17, 2026, marking its 55th episode of lava fountaining since December 2024. The powerful volcanic activity sent fountains of molten lava soaring approximately 700 feet into the air, while an ash plume rose to nearly 25,000 feet above sea level.According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the eruption began at 3:19 am local time and continued for around six hours before ending at 9:03 am. The activity took place at the summit of Kilauea, inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.The eruption began at the volcano’s northern vent, where molten lava shot high into the air. By around 5 am, the lava fountains had reached heights of approximately 700 feet. The eruption also generated volcanic ash and fragments of volcanic material that spread around the summit crater.The latest episode followed an unusually long pause of nearly two months after the previous major lava-fountaining event on August 25, 2026.
Kilauea is among the world’s most active volcanoes and has experienced repeated episodes of lava fountaining since December 2024. Scientists monitor changes in ground movement, seismic activity and pressure beneath the volcano to better understand its behaviour.The USGS confirmed that the latest lava fountains remained confined to the Halemaumau crater within the national park. However, volcanic gases and airborne ash can pose risks to people in affected areas, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities.
