Wednesday, May 23, 2018

The Mighty Kilauea shows no signs of slowing down

Solidified lava from Fissure 17 (located to the east of the currently active fissure complex) has a consistency similar to toothpaste.

Magma continues to be supplied to the lower East Rift Zone leading to robust eruptive activity in the middle portion of the fissure system. In the last 24 hours, the most active fissures have been 22,19, 6, 5, and 23. A faint glow was seen from Fissure 9, but no flows, and methane was observed burning in road cracks overnight.

The ocean entry remains active and is producing occasional small explosions. Observers noted the height of the perched lava pond/channel had reached 11 meters / 36 feet above the ground level.
Volcanic gas emissions remain very high from these fissure eruptions.


Blue burning flame of methane gas was observed in the cracks on Kahukai Street, during the overnight hours.


The channelized lava flow and active ocean entry. The fissure complex is visible in the upper center of the image.

Small ash emissions from the Overlook crater occurred frequently throughout the night. Moderate trade winds were blowing to the southwest and ashfall may be noticed in downwind locations. 

Earthquakes in the summit area continue at a moderate rate, as does deflation of the summit region.


Helicopter overflight of Kīlauea Volcano's lower East Rift Zone shows the lava channel emerging from Fissure 22






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