Kīlauea Volcano erupts in Hawaii: Lava fountains soar over 1,300 feet promoting ashfall warning

One of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea on Hawaii’s Big Island, erupted again in March 2026, sending massive lava fountains into the sky and prompting an ashfall warning for nearby communities. The eruption occurred within the Halemaʻumaʻu crater at the volcano’s summit, drawing close monitoring from scientists and emergency officials.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS) and the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), the eruption began on March 10, 2026, when lava started erupting from vents inside the crater. Activity intensified quickly, producing dramatic lava fountains and thick plumes of volcanic material.

Tephra, a general term for volcanic rock fragments, has been reported falling around communities, including up to 5-inch fragments.


Scientists reported that powerful bursts of molten lava shot more than 1,300 feet (about 400 meters) into the air. The eruption involved at least two active vents inside Halemaʻumaʻu crater, each producing towering lava fountains and ejecting molten rock, ash, and volcanic glass fragments.

The eruption plume rose thousands of feet into the atmosphere, carrying ash and fine debris downwind. Volcanic material including ash and glass-like strands known as “Pele’s hair” was reported falling in areas around the volcano.

Ashfall warning issued

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued an ashfall warning as winds carried volcanic debris across parts of Hawaii Island. Ashfall can reduce visibility and cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and lungs if inhaled.


Officials advised residents and visitors in affected areas to remain indoors when possible, close windows and doors, and avoid unnecessary travel during ashfall. Volcanic ash can also damage vehicles and equipment, making caution important during active eruptions.

Due to hazardous conditions, sections of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park were temporarily closed. Authorities also shut down parts of nearby roads, including sections of Highway 11, after volcanic debris and ash were reported in surrounding communities.

The latest eruption is part of a continuing eruptive phase at Kīlauea that began in December 2024. Since then, the volcano has experienced multiple episodic eruptions from vents within Halemaʻumaʻu crater.