The US Geological Survey (USGS) issued a 'code red' at 7:41am ET after detecting elevated earthquake activity beneath the summit, indicating imminent volcanic activity. This early warning was confirmed by continuous monitoring of the seismic activity, which had previously shown signs of magma movement due to swelling ground levels around Kilauea. This unprecedented combination of signs led to heightened alertness and community preparedness for potential hazards associated with the eruption.
Footage of what was described as a 'dynamic eruption' highlighted a series of fissures that were erupting lava fountains, which in turn fed significant lava flows at the base of Halemaʻumaʻu. The USGS has stated that while the current eruptive activity is confined to the summit caldera, there remains an ongoing risk due to volcanic gases, primarily water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, which could pose serious health hazards.
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