Kilauea Volcano Eruption Update: May 2025

Why This Matters: Understanding Kilauea's activity helps scientists and local communities prepare for potential hazards and provides valuable insights into volcanic processes. The stabilized livestream allows for remote monitoring and public awareness.

#### Background

Kilauea, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is one of the world's most active volcanoes. Its ongoing eruption episodes provide scientists with a unique opportunity to study volcanic behavior. Recent observations indicate increased activity, including fountaining and gas emissions.

#### Current Status

As of late May 2025, Kilauea's eruption is in a precursory phase, with the potential for sustained fountaining. The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) is closely monitoring the volcano, providing updates on summit inflation, gas emissions, and visual observations. The V3cam livestream offers real-time views of the volcanic activity.

#### Stabilized Livestream

Strong winds in the caldera initially caused shaky views from the newly installed V3cam. On May 22, 2025, USGS staff moved the camera to a more stable tripod setup, improving the livestream quality. This allows for better monitoring of the vents and associated hazards.

#### Data and Trends

The average sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rate remains around 1,200 tonnes per day, similar to rates recorded during prior pauses. Tiltmeters at Uēkahuna (UWD) and Sandhill (SDH) have recorded inflationary tilt, indicating ongoing volcanic activity.

#### Actionable Takeaways

Kilauea is in a precursory phase with potential for sustained fountaining.

The USGS V3cam livestream provides real-time views of the vents in Halemaʻumaʻu crater.

Summit inflation, gas emissions, and episodes of gas and ash jetting.

Do you think Kilauea's activity will continue to increase? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!