HAWAII’s Kilauea volcano saw Episode 39 of its ongoing eruptive activity end in the early hours of Thursday, following almost six hours of spectacular lava fountaining that reached heights of up to 1,400 feet.
EPISODE 39 of Kilauea’s eruptive cycle drew to a close at 2:13 a.m. on Thursday, concluding nearly six hours of intense lava fountaining that had begun the previous evening at 8:20 p.m. The eruption coincided closely with the one-year anniversary of the volcano’s first episode in 2024.
During the fountaining, lava jets soared as high as 1,400 feet, creating a striking display visible from several vantage points across Hawai‘i Island.
HawaiiNewsNow reported on Thursday that scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) monitoring the eruption reported that the episode proceeded without major complications, but highlighted the ongoing need for vigilance due to Kilauea’s persistent activity.
“The episode ended safely early this morning, but Kilauea remains active, and residents should continue to follow guidance from local authorities,” USGS experts said. They also noted that based on current patterns, the next eruptive episode is expected to occur in roughly two weeks.
Kilauea, one of the world’s most closely observed volcanoes, has been in near-constant activity since 2024, producing multiple eruptive episodes characterised by lava fountaining and lava flows that have reshaped parts of Hawai‘i Island’s landscape.
Scientists continue to monitor ground deformation, gas emissions, and thermal activity to anticipate future eruptions and minimise risks to local communities and infrastructure. - December 25, 2025
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