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Recent Kilauea Status Reports, Updates, and Information Releases

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATETuesday, February 10, 2009 8:29 AM HST (Tuesday, February 10, 2009 18:29 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Small amounts of tephra continue to be produced from the Halema`uma`u vent. Lava from east rift zone vents flows through tubes to the ocean in two locations. A collapse of the Waikupanaha bench probably occurred yesterday evening.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Yesterday, the plume moved southwest over the Desert; weak winds produced poor air quality in the afternoon. Overnight, only a very faint glow was recorded by the vent webcam. A very small amount of ash was collected this morning beneath a white plume moving southwest over the Ka`u Desert.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable but rate decreased during the past week's DI tilt events. The most recent average measurement was 600 tonnes/day on February 9 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels have been variable and elevated; weak episodic tremor continued. One earthquake was strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera; 1 earthquake was located on south flank faults. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is within background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera recorded completion of the third DI event in the past week. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded less than 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,200 tonnes/day measured on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded completion of the most recent DI event this morning. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels remain at low values with a few tremor bursts.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex flows through tubes to the ocean in two locations. Late yesterday afternoon, CD officials reported booming noises and explosions from the ocean entry; UHH and NPS personnel reported lava bubble bursts at 15-30 minute intervals and a small plume from the vicinity of the Waha`ula entry. These observations strongly suggest that the bench was cracking and allowing seawater to enter the lava tube, resulting in steam explosions that expelled molten lava through the tube roof. The bench collapsed between 5 and 5:30 pm, based on observations and seismic signals. CD officials reported significantly reduced ocean entry activity after the collapse. Overnight, GOES-WEST intermittently displayed a thermal anomaly on the coastal plain indicating at least weak surface flow activity. This morning, weather conditions at the coast preclude confirmation of continuing Waikupanaha ocean entry activity.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATEMonday, February 9, 2009 8:34 AM HST (Monday, February 9, 2009 18:34 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: A third DI event in a week started its inflation this morning. Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Lava from east rift zone vents flows through tubes to the ocean.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Yesterday, the wispy plume moved southwest over the Desert. Overnight, only a very faint glow was recorded by the vent webcam and noted this morning during the ash collection routine. A very small amount of ash was collected over the weekend. This morning, a white plume is moving southwest over the Ka`u Desert.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable; the rate decreased during last week's DI tilt event. The most recent average measurement was 500 tonnes/day on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels have been variable and elevated; episodic tremor continued through yesterday and sputtered out after 4 pm when tremor levels started to increase as the DI deflation progresses; tremor levels are decreasing this morning with DI inflation. Two earthquakes were strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera; 2 earthquakes were located on south flank faults. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is within background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera recorded the third DI event in the past week; deflation started at 2:52 pm yesterday and switched to inflation at 6:46 am this morning. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded less than 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,200 tonnes/day measured on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded the DI deflation delayed by about 55 minutes. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels remain at low values with a few tremor bursts.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex flows through tubes to the ocean. Last night, CD officials again reported a broad ocean entry with explosions but no observations of glow from any surface flows. This morning, CD officials report a rising ocean entry plume at Waikupanaha.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATESunday, February 8, 2009 8:27 AM HST (Sunday, February 8, 2009 18:27 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: Episodic tremor and faint glow continued until about 8 pm. Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Lava from east rift zone vents has flows through tubes to the ocean.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Yesterday, the plume moved to the southwest punctuated by two dust plumes following rockfalls between 3 and 5 pm. Overnight, the rising lava produced stronger glow recorded by a vent webcam with each pulse of glow corresponding to a pulse of episodic tremor; the glow became faint after 7:40 pm, about when episodic tremor stopped, and was never strong enough to be captured by the webcam at HVO. This morning, a white plume is moving southwest over the Ka`u Desert.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable; the rate decreased during last week's DI tilt event. The most recent average measurement was 500 tonnes/day on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels have been variable and elevated; episodic tremor continued through the day until just before 8 pm and may be starting again this morning. Two earthquakes were strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera; 3 earthquakes were located on south flank faults. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is within background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera recorded no significant tilting; minor oscillations correlated with episodic tremor. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded less than 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,200 tonnes/day measured on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded no significant tilting since completion of the most recent DI event. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels remain at low values.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex flows through tubes to the ocean. Last night, CD officials report a broad ocean entry with lots of explosions. Overnight, GOES-WEST images included a strong thermal anomaly through this morning, confirming that surface flows remained active overnight. This morning, CD officials report a continuing ocean entry at Waikupanaha.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Definitions of terms

HAVO: Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park

UHH: University of Hawai`i at Hilo

glow: light from an unseen source; indirect light.

FLIR: Forward Looking InfraRed, a camera which directly images heat rather than visible light. If volcanic fume is not too rich in water vapor, a FLIR can see through it to image hot surfaces.

pali: Hawaiian word for cliff or steep incline. In the context of the TEB flow field, 'pali' usually refers to Pulama pali that bisects the abandoned Royal Gardens subdivision.

CD: Hawai`i County Civil Defense

DOH air quality monitoring: see Hawai`i State Department of Health Air Quality website http://hawaii.gov/doh/air-quality/index.html .

bomb: lava fragment ejected into the air while molten acquiring aerodynamic shapes in flight; the term is restricted to pieces larger than 6.4 cm (2.5 in.). See http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/Products/Pglossary/bomb.html

hybrid, or explosion, seismic signals: complex earthquakes that are a hybrid of different signals. They start as a high frequency earthquake, similar to typical rock-breaking or rock fall events, that transitions to very long, 20-30 second, period (VLP) oscillations that continue for several minutes. At HVO, we observed these signals with the four small Halema`uma`u explosive eruptions in March, April, and August 2008. Several more similar signals, some as strong as the explosion signals associated with the four explosive eruptions, have been recorded without obvious evidenceof surface eruption such as rock fragments or other debris.

MODIS satellite: a NASA satellite pair, Aqua and Terra, which passes over Hawai`i twice a day. During daylight hours, the images are taken at about 11 am and 2 pm H.s.t. This imagery can be viewed about 3-5 hours after acquisition at http://rapidfire.sci.gsfc.nasa.gov/subsets/?subset=AERONET_Mauna_Loa.

GOES-WEST satellite: a geostationary NOAA satellite used most often for weather tracking. Images are typically acquired every 15 minutes. The loop http://www.ssd.noaa.gov/VAAC/kilauea/sloop-vis.html is posted by the Washington DC Volcanic Ash Advisory Center for the purpose of tracking emissions from Hawai`i volcanoes. The imagery automatically switches from infrared at night to visual during the day. Recently, it has been useful for tracking volcanic gas emissions from Halema`uma`u, Pu`u `O`o, and the Waikupanaha ocean entry during the day and hot lava flows at night.

Volcano Watch: weekly newspaper-like article written by HVO scientists on a volcano topic of interest. These articles are usually printed in the Sunday editions of the Hawai`i Island newspapers Hawaii Tribune Herald and West Hawaii Today. More than 800 of these articles have been written and are archived on the HVO website (menu at the bottom of the homepage hvo.wr.usgs.gov).

VLP seismic tremor: seismic tremor is continuous ground vibrations simultaneously at many different frequencies. VLP is a very long period or very low frequency component which, at the Halema`uma`u vent, has a period of 20-30 seconds or a frequency of 0.03-0.05 cycles per second (Hertz or Hz).

RB2S2BL earthquakes: earthquakes that were recorded but were too small to be located. These quakes have magnitudes less than 1.7 and may only be recorded by one or two seismometers. Recording at a minimum of 4 seismometer sites is required to locate an earthquake.

wink: an abrupt shutting off of incandescence at a vent lasting for several minutes. At the Halema`uma`u vent, winks usually start with or immediately follow a small, local earthquake. The diminishment of incandescence is due to the plume changing from translucent to opaque with rock dust.

tonne: metric unit equal to 1,000 kilograms, 2,204.6 lbs, or 1.1 English tons.

microradian: a measure of angle equivalent to 0.000057 degrees.

ppm: parts-per-million; 10,000 ppm = 1 %.

littoral cone: usually small cones built near active ocean entries; the cones are constructed of tephra from steam explosions that are sometimes produced when 1,150 degree C lava enters the 25 degree C ocean.

incandescence: the production of visible light from a hot surface. The term also refers to the light emitted from a hot surface. The color of the light is related to surface temperature. Some surfaces can display dull red incandescence at temperatures as low as 430 degrees Centigrade (806 degrees Fahrenheit). By contrast, molten lava displays bright orange to orange-yellow light from surfaces that are hotter than 900 degrees C (1,650 degrees F).

tephra: all material deposited by fallout from an eruption-related plume, regardless of size.

ash: tephra less than 2 mm (5/64 inches) in size.

TEB: Thanksgiving Eve Breakout, the designation used for lava flows that started with a breakout on November 21, 2007.

DI tilt event: DI is an abbreviation for 'deflation-inflation' and describes a volcanic event of uncertain significance. DI events are recorded by tiltmeters at Kilauea summit as an abrupt deflation of up to a few microradians in magnitude lasting several hours to 2-3 days followed by an abrupt inflation of approximately equal magnitude. The tilt events are usually accompanied by an increase in summit tremor during the deflation phase. A careful analysis of these events suggests that they may be related to changes in magma supply to a storage reservoir at less than 1 km depth, just east of Halema`uma`u crater. Usually, though not always, these changes propagate through the magma conduit from the summit to the eruption site, as many of the DI events at Kilauea summit are also recorded at a tiltmeter at Pu`u `O`o, delayed by 1-2 hours. DI events often correlate with lava pulses and/or pauses in the eruption at the Pu`u `O`o/July 21/TEB vents.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATESaturday, February 7, 2009 8:30 AM HST (Saturday, February 7, 2009 18:30 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: A second DI event has proceeded through deflation to inflation; a rising and falling lava surface was observed yesterday deep beneath the vent. Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Lava from east rift zone vents has flows through tubes to the ocean.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Yesterday, the plume remained wispy and moved in several directions. the plume condition allowed HVO geologists to get good infrared views of a lava surface rising and falling about 115-120 m (380-400 ft) below the vent rim. Overnight, the rising lava produced stronger glow recorded by a vent webcam with each pulse of glow corresponding to a pulse of episodic tremor. This morning, a white plume is moving southwest over the Ka`u Desert.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable; the rate has been decreasing during the ongoing DI tilt event. The most recent average measurement was 500 tonnes/day on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels have been variable and elevated; episodic tremor continued through the day, increasing in amplitude before stopping at 4:50 pm; episodic tremor started again at 8:15 pm with decreasing amplitude until it sputtered out this morning. No earthquakes were strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera; 3 earthquakes were located on south flank faults. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is within background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera recorded a second DI tilt event with the deflation starting at 8:14 am and inflation following at 7:46 pm. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded about 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months; no contraction or extension mimicked the second DI tilt.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,200 tonnes/day measured on February 5 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded the second DI event delayed by about 40 minutes. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels increased for several hours during February 6 at the TEB vent but returned to low values.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex flows through tubes to the ocean. Overnight, GOES-WEST images included a strong thermal anomaly through this morning, confirming that surface flows remained active overnight.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATEFriday, February 6, 2009 8:29 AM HST (Friday, February 6, 2009 18:29 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: DI tilt event inflation and glow from the Halema`uma`u vent continued; rising lava has been observed deep beneath the vent. Reduced amounts of ash are being produced. Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Lava from east rift zone vents has resumed flow through tubes to the ocean.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Yesterday, the plume was wispy and moving low to the southwest. HVO geologists got good looks into the vent twice and documented lava rising below the vent. Overnight, the rising lava produced stronger glow which was recorded by a vent webcam. This morning, a white plume is rising into low fog. A very small amount of ash was collected this morning and included some fresh spatter. Morning vent sounds included rock falls and some gas rushing noises.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable; the rate has been decreasing during the ongoing DI tilt event. The most recent average measurement was 500 tonnes/day on February 4 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels have been variable and elevated; around 1 am, episodic tremor started. Four earthquakes were strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera and 1 earthquake was located on south flank faults. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is at background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera continue to record DI inflation now totaling more than 3.5 microradians; just before 1 am, the tilt started a small oscillation in sync with the 30-45 minute tremor cycle mentioned above. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded about 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months; over the last few days, contraction and extension of about 1 cm each mimicked the tilt.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,200 tonnes/day measured on February 3 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded continuing DI inflation totaling a little more than 1.5 microradians. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels near Pu`u `O`o and the TEB vent remain at low values.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex has paused in response to the ongoing DI tilt event. Yesterday, HVO geologists found only small residual streams of lava entering the ocean, much reduced from normal rates of flow. By evening, CD officials reported two lava streams heading down the pali and across the coastal plain, but no ocean entries. Overnight, GOES-WEST images started to include thermal anomalies around 7:15 pm and continued through this morning, confirming that surface flows have resumed and remained active overnight. This morning, CD officials report that the Waikupanaha ocean entry has resumed.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATEThursday, February 5, 2009 7:59 AM HST (Thursday, February 5, 2009 17:59 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: Yesterday, a dense brown dust plume was ejected following a hybrid seismic event at 1 pm. DI tilt event inflation and glow from the Halema`uma`u vent started this morning. Reduced amounts of ash are being produced. Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Lava from east rift zone vents has paused in response to the ongoing DI event and may resume today.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Strong northeasterly winds kept the plume moving southwest yesterday; at 1 pm, a hybrid seismic event occurred vertically ejecting a dense brown dust plume that lasted for several minutes. The vent produced a small amount of ash, still mostly reworked material - more tephra than most brown plumes seen over the past few weeks. Overnight, no glow was recorded by any webcams until after 5 am when the DI inflation started. This morning, a white plume is moving low and southwest over the Ka`u Desert.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable. The most recent average measurement was 900 tonnes/day on February 4 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels have been quite variable but remain at elevated values; the hybrid event at 1 pm was smaller in amplitude than most of the explosive eruptions and was preceded by two smaller hybrid events at 8:40 and 10:54 am. Seismic tremor levels nearly halved in amplitude following the 1 pm hybrid event, increased slowly throughout the afternoon and overnight, started decreasing in response to the start of DI inflation, and then abruptly increased at 7:15 am. Four earthquakes were strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera and 4 earthquakes were located on south flank faults. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is at background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera recorded DI inflation starting at 5:08 am and increased about 1 microradian in the first 20 minutes. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded about 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months; over the last few days, minor contraction and extension mimicked the tilt.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 900 tonnes/day measured on February 3 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded ground tilting toward the crater in response to the DI deflation at the summit; weak outward tilting started around 6:20 am this morning in response to summit inflation. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels near Pu`u `O`o and the TEB vent remain at low values.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex has paused in response to the ongoing DI tilt event. Yesterday and last night, HAVO eruption crew and CD officials reported weak to non-existent ocean entry plumes with no glow from the flow field, probably the result of the vent shutdown expected in response to the ongoing DI deflation. The switch to inflation this morning should cause flow field activity to resume today but it is uncertain whether the TEB or Prince tubes will be fully reoccupied.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATEWednesday, February 4, 2009 7:53 AM HST (Wednesday, February 4, 2009 17:53 UTC)

This report on the status of Kilauea volcanic activity, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park status can be found at http://www.nps.gov/havo/ or 985-6000. Hawai`i County Viewing Area status can be found at 961-8093.

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW #1302-01-)
19°25'16" N 155°17'13" W, Summit Elevation 4091 ft (1247 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH

Activity Summary for past 24 hours: A DI tilt event deflation continues. Reduced amounts of ash are being produced. Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated from both the Halema`uma`u and the Pu`u `O`o vents. Lava from east rift zone vents flows through tubes to the ocean in two locations; surface flows remain active on the coastal plain.

Past 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Strong northeasterly winds kept the plume moving southwest yesterday. Overnight, no glow was recorded by any webcams. This morning, a white plume is moving low and southwest over the Ka`u Desert.

A small amount of ash, mostly reworked material, was collected downwind of the source this morning. Only a few rockfall sounds were heard during the collection routine.

Sulfur dioxide emission rates remain elevated and variable. The most recent average measurement was 1,200 tonnes/day on February 3 compared to the 2003-2007 average rate of 140 tonnes/day.

Seismic tremor levels remain at elevated values. Two earthquakes were strong enough to be located beneath the south summit caldera; 4 earthquakes were located beneath the upper east rift zone and another 3 were located beneath the southwest rift zone. The number of RB2S2BL earthquakes is increasing but remains within background values.

The network of tiltmeters within the caldera continued to record DI deflation totaling more than 2.5 microradians so far. The GPS network (less sensitive than the tiltmeter network) has recorded about 2 cm of contraction across the caldera over the previous 3 months.

Past 24 hours at the middle east rift zone vents and flow field: Magma continues to degas through Pu`u `O`o Crater before erupting from vents to the east. The most recent sulfur dioxide emission rate measurement was 1,100 tonnes/day measured on January 29 compared to the 2003-2007 average of about 1,700 tonnes/day for this vent. No incandescence was observed within the crater overnight.

The tiltmeter on the north side of Pu`u `O`o recorded ground tilting toward the crater in response to the DI deflation at the summit; a brief reversal coincides with an increase in rainfall in the area. GPS stations spanning the crater (less sensitive than tiltmeters) have recorded about 2 cm of contraction over the past month and almost 5 cm over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels near Pu`u `O`o and the TEB vent remain at low values.

Lava from the TEB vent and the rootless shield complex continues to flow through tubes to the ocean in two locations. Yesterday, HVO geologists mapped two narrow advancing fingers from the Prince lobe between the Waha`ula and the Waikupanaha ocean entries; the fingers were sluggish perhaps robbed of vigor by the ongoing DI event. Last night, CD officials reported an intermittently active Waikupanaha ocean entry with lava entering the ocean over a wide area; spots of glow could also be seen from the advancing fingers of the Prince lobe (see map). This morning, CD officials report a weak low plume from the Waikupanaha ocean entry.

HAZARD ALERT: The lava delta and adjacent areas both inland and out to sea are some of the most hazardous areas on the flow field. Frequent delta/bench collapses give little warning, can produce hot rock falls inland and in the adjacent ocean, and can produce large but local waves. The steam plume produced by lava entering the ocean contains fine lava fragments and an assortment of acid droplets that can be harmful to your health. The rapidly changing conditions near the ocean entry have been responsible for many injuries and a few deaths.

Maps, photos, webcam views, and other information about Kilauea Volcano are available at http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. A daily update summary is available by phone at (808) 967-8862.

A map with details of earthquakes located within the past two weeks can be found at http://tux.wr.usgs.gov/

A definition of alert levels can be found at http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/2006/warnschemes.html

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is one of five volcano observatories within the U.S. Geological Survey and is responsible for monitoring volcanoes and earthquakes in Hawai`i.

Update Archive

Older updates can be found using the HVO Archive Form.

For more information about the Volcano Alert Level and Aviation Color Code, please see the U.S. Geological Survey's Alert Notification System for Volcanic Activity Fact Sheet (pdf) or the USGS Volcanic Activity Alert-Notification System web page.

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Page Last Modified: Monday, 12-Jan-2009 14:52:14 (dyv)