The eruption that began southwest of Kīlauea’s summit yesterday morning has paused. However, activity in this region remains dynamic and could change quickly.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) downgraded the Volcano WARNING for Kilauea to WATCH.  Visual observations suggest that effusion of lava ceased by approximately 12:30 p.m yesterday. However, areas of incandescence and elevated volcanic gas emissions continue.

Earthquake activity decreased greatly in the summit region of Kīlauea with the onset of the eruption.  Ground deformation has been characterized by slow summit deflation suggesting that magma may still be moving from summit storage to the southwest into the eruption area.

HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea, which remains at alert level/aviation color code WATCH/ORANGE.

For more information visit https://www.usgs.gov/programs/VHP/volcanic-alert-levels-characterize-conditions-us-volcanoes

Photo credit: USGS