Kilauea volcano erupts on May 25, 2025, residents urged to be vigilant

Hawaii, May 25, 2025 - Mount Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii, erupted again on Monday morning, May 25, 2025. The eruption occurred around 6:30 a.m. local time and spewed volcanic ash, hot lava and toxic gases into the air. This is the 23rd eruption since volcanic activity increased on December 23, 2024. The jet of lava reached more than 300 meters, as high as the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

According to the United States Geological Survey's (USGS) Hawaii Volcano Observatory, the eruption occurred at Halema'uma'u Crater within the main caldera, Kaluapele, in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The eruption lasted for about six hours and attracted the attention of many tourists and scientists. Webcam images and video from Keanakakoi Overlook show lava gushing from the crater.

The USGS explained that the eruption was caused by increased earthquake activity since July 2024. These earthquakes shook the mountain peak and changed the eruption pattern. Unlike before, this eruption shows a rare “rapid rebound” pattern that was last seen in 1986.

The government immediately issued a red alert for aviation and called for a voluntary evacuation of residents within a 5-kilometer radius of the crater. There have been no reports of casualties, but some roads were closed due to volcanic material and dangerous sulfur dioxide gas. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) asked residents to stay indoors, wear masks, and follow officials' instructions.

Impact on Tourism

The eruption drew thousands of tourists and locals to the National Park to witness the beauty of the flaming lava. Spots like Uekahuna and Kilauea Overlook were packed with visitors. However, they were advised to stay off official trails due to unstable ground and the danger of volcanic gas and glass debris (known as Pele's Hair).

Some tourists were worried and canceled their vacation plans to the Big Island. Some chose to visit other islands such as Maui or Oahu. Hotels in Hilo and Kailua-Kona experienced an increase in reservations as well as cancellation requests. Air tour services such as helicopters and small planes have been canceled due to the risk of volcanic ash for flights.

Cultural Meanings and Safety Measures

Mount Kilauea is highly revered by the native Hawaiian people and is considered a sacred place. Many cultural practitioners come to perform rituals. Visitors are asked to maintain a respectful attitude and follow park rules. The park has also closed some areas such as Keanakakoi and parts of Crater Rim Drive for safety reasons due to deteriorating air quality.

Monitoring and Progress

Scientists from the USGS continue to observe the progress of this volcanic activity. Earthquakes and swelling of the ground beneath Halema'uma'u Crater indicate the possibility of further eruptions. However, as this eruption occurred in a remote area of the national park, the risk to human settlements and property is considered low.

The eruption of Mount Kilauea on May 25, 2025 reaffirmed that the mountain is one of the most active in the world. Its beauty captivates many, but it is also a reminder of the power of nature.

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