Eruption Viewing East Rift Zone

Attention symbol illustrated with a red triangle and exclamation point within it.

The eruption that began on September 15th, 2024 is paused as of September 23. No lava viewing or nighttime glow are visible. The eruption began in a remote area and remains closed at this time.

Areas along Chain of Craters Road may be exposed to the gas plume from the eruption. Visitors should check the air monitoring network before and during their visit and be prepared to immediately leave the area if conditions become hazardous.

Webcam

Live Image of Nāpau Crater from east side of crater [S2cam]

This image is from a temporary research camera positioned near Puʻuʻōʻō looking west.

Disclaimer:
The webcams are in an area that is off-limits to the general public because of significant volcanic hazards.

View Webcam

Bright red glow along horizon surrounded by darkness — Lava glow visible from Chain of Craters Road on September 18th, 2024.
USGS Image/K. Mulliken

Will I be able to see the eruption?

Lava viewing is not possible. The eruption paused on the morning of September 20 and glow has decreased significantly. Lava glow viewing in the evening from open Chain of Craters lookouts is unlikely.

The eruption at Nāpau Crater has paused but serious hazards still exist. Kealakomo Overlook and surrounding areas are closed due to hazardous concentrations of volcanic gasses and particulate matter. All visitors to Chain of Craters Road are urged to stay safe and be respectful of the hazards by doing the following:

Volcanic eruptions can be hazardous and change at any time. Stay on marked trails and overlooks. Do not enter closed areas. Avoid cliff edges and earth cracks, they are unstable.
Hazardous volcanic gases present a danger to everyone, especially people with heart or respiratory problems, infants, young children and pregnant women. Use the park air monitoring website as you visit the park.
Slow down and drive safely. Observe posted speed limits, drive slow over earthquake cracks and bumps and be on the lookout for wildlife such as nēnē, the world's rarest goose.
Got vog? Roll up your windows and turn your air conditioner on to recirculate. Stay in your vehicle and leave the area.

Map with purple areas showing old lava flows and red showing current lava flows — USGS map of new lava flows as of September 18th, 2024.
USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

Areas closed due to volcanic hazards:

Maunaulu Trail and parking
Nāpau Trail
Nāulu Trail
Kealakomo Overlook

What should I do before visiting?

Changes in the eruptive activity and weather conditions such as fog or rain often prevent any eruption viewing. Consider factors such as viewing experience, long waits and crowds, and available time when selecting where to view the eruption. Check out the park map and download the new NPS mobile app to help you navigate during your visit.

While an eruption is an exciting experience, keep in mind you are observing a sacred event. The summit of Kīlauea volcano is a wahi kapu (sacred landscape) surrounded with storied places. Your visit can be more meaningful by learning about the deep connections between Native Hawaiian culture and this landscape.