Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano Shoots Over 1,000 Feet of Lava into the Air, Prompting Highway Closure and Flight Cancellations

Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawai’i erupted once again on Tuesday, March 10, 2025, shooting lava more than 1,000 feet into the air. This latest eruption represents the 43rd episode in an ongoing series of volcanic activity that began on December 23, 2024, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The eruption, which took place at approximately 9:17 a.m. local time and continued until around 6:21 p.m., prompted significant disruptions in the surrounding areas. Due to hazardous conditions created by the volcanic ash and small glassy fragments known as tephra, local authorities closed parts of Highway 11 and cancelled multiple flights between Honolulu and Hilo, the nearest major town to Kilauea.

As volcanic ash settled over the area, the National Park Service swiftly took action by shutting down access to the summit of Kilauea. These preventative measures were deemed necessary due to the risks that the ash and tephra posed to the safety of both residents and visitors. The National Weather Service subsequently issued an Ashfall Warning, advising the public of the potential impacts of the volcanic materials in the atmosphere.

In an update posted on March 11, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park announced that Highway 11 had been reopened. However, officials cautioned that residents could still expect temporary closures in other areas due to lingering volcanic activity. The park’s statement highlighted that volcanic ash and larger tephra particles remained prevalent around the summit, necessitating continued vigilance.

Officials from the USGS urged community members to minimise their exposure to tephra, noting the potential for irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. As Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and the youngest on the island, safety precautions are critical in protecting those in proximity to its eruptions.

Kilauea has a rich cultural significance; for some native Hawaiians, the volcano is regarded as the domain of Pelehonuamea, the goddess of fire and volcanoes. Her spirit is believed to reside within the active crater, imbuing the volcano with a sense of spiritual reverence that transcends the physical dangers it poses.

The recent activity follows Kilauea’s prior eruptions, including a significant event in March of the previous year, which saw lava spewing over 700 feet into the air. A more recent eruption in November 2024 witnessed a “volnado,” a rare phenomenon caused by the interaction of ash and debris forming a swirling column, further illustrating the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions.

Residents and authorities are working together to monitor the situation closely. The ongoing livestream provided by the USGS captures the volcano’s activity, allowing for real-time observation and ensuring that safety measures are appropriately enforced. Local communities remain aware of the potential dangers posed by Kilauea and are committed to taking necessary precautions.

While the eruption on March 10 was remarkable in its display of natural power, it also serves as a reminder of Kilauea’s volatility and the continued need for preparedness in living alongside such an active geological feature. As the land adapts to the changes wrought by the volcano, both residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and heed advice from experts to ensure their safety.

As this latest phase of Kilauea’s eruption unfolds, both local and international observers will continue to watch with interest, knowing that beneath the surface lies a complex interplay of geological forces that shape the environment of Hawai’i.