Kilauea volcano erupts again, launching lava 100 feet into the air

Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano experienced its latest eruption on August 22, 2025, shooting lava high into the air and across its summit crater floor. The eruption, which is the 31st since December 2024, commenced in the morning when the north vent at the summit crater began to spatter continuously. Later in the day, lava overflowed from the vent, creating spectacular lava fountains that reached up to 100 feet high. This eruption is part of an ongoing geological phenomenon where magma is supplied from a lower chamber under Halemaumau Crater, traveling through narrow vents to erupt. Scientists have noted that since December, the same pathway has been used for magma to reach the surface, indicating a sustained volcanic activity. The eruption event drew attention from both locals and tourists, many of whom gathered at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a front-row view of the natural spectacle. The explosive nature of the eruption allows gases trapped within the magma to create towering fountains similar to uncorking a Champagne bottle. Visitors have been advised to exercise caution and stay within designated trails due to potential hazards associated with unstable ground. The National Park experienced increased visitor traffic, suggesting that the ongoing eruptions significantly contribute to public interest in the park's natural wonders. As Kilauea continues to erupt, scientists remain uncertain about the future of this volcanic activity, highlighting the unpredictable nature of such geological events.