Kilauea Eruption: Episode 43 Underway – Latest Updates

HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK – As of March 10, 2026, Kilauea volcano is experiencing Episode 43 of its ongoing summit eruption. The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) is closely monitoring the situation, and conditions are evolving rapidly. This article provides the latest updates, safety recommendations, and information for residents and visitors.

Eruption Details & Current Status

Episode 43 began at 9:17 HST on March 10, 2026, marked by a doubling of volcanic tremor and accelerated ground tilt. Precursory lava flows were observed approximately an hour prior. Currently, light and variable winds are causing unpredictable distribution of volcanic gas emissions and material from the Halemaʻumaʻu crater.

UPDATE (11:15 a.m. HST): The USGS has raised the Volcano Alert Level for Kilauea from WATCH to WARNING, and the Aviation Color Code from ORANGE to RED. This escalation is due to the voluminous tephra being emitted and spreading northward.

Impacts and Safety Precautions

• Tephra Fall: Communities downwind, including golf course housing areas, are experiencing tephra fall of up to 5 inches.
• Road Closure: Highway 11 is currently closed between mile markers 24 and 40 due to hazardous conditions caused by falling tephra.
• Health Advisory: Individuals sensitive to volcanic gases are advised to shelter indoors or evacuate the affected area.
• Water Contamination: Disconnect water tank connections from gutters to prevent contamination from tephra.
• Protective Measures: Minimize exposure to glass particles and larger tephra.

Webcam Observations

USGS webcams are providing real-time views of the eruption. As of just before 10 a.m. HST, the north vent fountains were reaching heights of over 300 feet (100 meters). A newly installed microphone near the V1 camera is capturing the sound of falling tephra. The south vent has also begun overflowing with lava.

You can view the live webcam feed here: USGS Kilauea Webcam

Aviation Notice

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has issued a reformatted Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA). This notification system is designed to inform the aviation community about volcanic activity that could pose a hazard to flights. The updated format aims to improve information delivery to pilots, air traffic managers, and other aviation professionals. More information on VONA can be found here.

Ongoing Monitoring

The USGS HVO continues to closely monitor Kilauea’s activity. This story will be updated as the eruptive episode progresses. Stay tuned for further information and safety advisories.

Source: Big Island Video News