New Eruption at Hawaii Volcano

A powerful but short-lived explosion occurred at the summit of the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island, producing a massive volcanic cloud. The cloud reached 30,000 feet above sea level—higher than Mount Everest, officials said at a news conference, ABC reported. Staff from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park were evacuated and officials warned residents in the path of the ash plume to shelter in place. Officials later said the ash fall was mostly localized. Activity may become more explosive at any time, the US Geological Survey said today, “increasing the intensity of ash production and producing ballistic projectiles near the vent” within Halemaumau Crater at the volcano’s summit. The newest eruption follows a damaging earthquake, dangerous volcanic smog and large lava flows that are all threatening Hawaii’s Big Island. Kileaua erupted May 3, and since then, fissures have been steadily cracking open near residential areas. Nearly 40 structures have been destroyed.