Halemaumau Crater explosion generates small ash plume

UPDATE: 8:30 a.m.

A “collapse explosion event” occurred at Kilauea’s summit this morning, releasing energy equivalent to a moderate earthquake, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The explosion, which released energy equal to a magnitude-5.2 earthquake, was followed by a small ash plume from Halemaumau Crater that reached about 500 feet and drifted to the southwest, the USGS said.

No tsunami was generated.

7 a.m.

Fissure 8 continues to feed the lava channel emptying into the ocean in Kapoho.

Fresh lava is also oozing at Kapoho Beach Lots, according to Hawaiian Volcano Observatory officials.

Residents of Kapoho are not allowed access to their homes for the time being because of the close proximity of active lava, Hawaii County Civil Defense said.

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Fissure 8 continues to be active, feeding the lava channel traveling to the ocean in Kapoho, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory officials said today.

Fresh lava is oozing at Kapoho Beach Lots, and gas emissions and laze continue to be very high.

Earlier today, an explosion at Kilauea’s Halemaumau Crater rocked the summit area.

The explosive event occurred at 4:49 a.m. An accompanying earthquake measured magnitude 5.4 but did not pose a tsunami threat, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

Due to volcanic activity, the following policies are in effect:

>> Kapoho residents are not allowed to enter their homes due to active lava in the area.

>> Due to frequent earthquakes, residents in the Volcano area are advised to monitor utility connections of gas, electricity, and water after earthquakes.

>> Any looting or vandalism during an emergency is treated as a felony.

>> No aircraft or drone activity is allowed within the Temporary Flight Restriction in lower Puna.

Disaster assistance is available island-wide for people and businesses that have been affected by the Kilauea eruption.

The Disaster Recovery Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., located at the Keaau High School Gym. If you need a ride, buses run between the two shelters and the center.

For more information, visit the Civil Defense website here.

Kilauea lower East Rift Zone lava flows and fissures, June 28 by Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Scribd

Given the dynamic nature of Kīlauea’s lower East Rift Zone eruption, with changing vent locations, fissures starting and stopping, and varying rates of lava effusion, map details shown here are accurate as of the date/time noted. Shaded purple areas indicate lava flows erupted in 1840, 1955, 1960, and 2014-2015. (see large map)