Kīlauea is an active shield volcano located on the southeastern shore of Hawaii Island. Formed between 210,000 and 280,000 years ago, it emerged above sea level approximately 100,000 years ago. It is the most active of the five volcanoes that form the island of Hawaii and is considered one of the most active volcanoes on Earth.
The volcano is notable for its frequent and prolonged eruptive activity, which has significantly shaped the island's landscape over centuries. Its eruptions typically feature fluid lava flows that can travel great distances, creating new land while also posing risks to nearby communities and infrastructure. This high level of activity makes it a vital site for volcanological research and public interest.
Recently, Kīlauea has been in the news due to renewed eruptive activity that began in December 2024. Reports from late 2025 indicate ongoing episodic lava fountains and flows, with forecasts suggesting further lava displays are likely. The eruption has drawn increased visitor attention to Hawaii Island, and governmental agencies have been actively releasing updates and photographic documentation of the event as activity continues.
Latest related news
- Renewed activity on Kīlauea signals another lava show is likely next week - Big Island Now 2025-11-17 07:45 · Big Island Now
- VOLCANO WATCH: Catching Up On The Kīlauea Eruption - Big Island Video News 2025-11-16 02:09 · Big Island Video News
- As Government Reopens, USGS Releases Backlog Of Kīlauea Eruption Photos - Big Island Video News 2025-11-15 01:35 · Big Island Video News
- Hawaii Island's Kilauea erupts, drawing hordes of visitors during shutdown - USA Today 2025-11-14 11:00 · USA Today
- Kīlauea Volcano Update: Next High Lava Episode Expected Around Thanksgiving - Big Island Video News 2025-11-14 09:58 · Big Island Video News
- Video shows 'ash tornado' spinning around erupting Kilauea volcano in Hawaii - USA Today 2025-11-14 05:40 · USA Today
- Hawaii's Kilauea volcano the 'best natural show on the planet' - Australian Broadcasting Corporation 2025-11-14 04:11 · Australian Broadcasting Corporation
- 'Holy Cow!' See What Stole The Spotlight From Kilauea Eruption - The Weather Channel 2025-11-13 00:58 · The Weather Channel
- Video Funnel cloud of ash forms next to spewing lava in Hawaii - abcnews.go.com 2025-11-12 09:02 · abcnews.go.com
- See it: Large 'volnadoes' swirl during volcanic eruption in Hawaii - FOX Weather 2025-11-12 02:47 · FOX Weather