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What you need to know about Kilauea volcano’s latest eruption

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano spews lava 600 feet into the sky
  • Kilauea volcano on Hawaii Island is currently erupting from two vents, illuminating the night sky with molten rock and marking its 31st eruption since December.
  • Hundreds of thousands are expected to watch livestreams provided by the US Geological Survey, as scientists monitor magma flow from a lower chamber causing the eruption.
  • This series of repeated lava fountain episodes is the fourth of its kind in 200 years, with scientists able to predict eruptions a few days in advance.
  • Native Hawaiian tradition considers the Halemaumau Crater, the eruption's source, as the sacred home of the volcano goddess Pele, viewing lava as a natural resource that forms new land.
  • Park visitation has significantly increased due to the eruption, though visitors are advised to stay on marked trails and be aware of volcanic hazards.
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