Ash Plumes Rise 35,000 Feet
The National Weather Service reported that ash plumes rose to 35,000 feet above sea level. However, there were no immediate reports of ash falling on nearby communities.Kilauea is located on Hawaii Island, around 200 miles (322 km) south of Honolulu. It is one of six active volcanoes in Hawaii and is known for frequent eruptions.
Episode 42 of Ongoing Summit Eruption
The latest activity marks Episode 42 of Kilauea’s ongoing summit eruption, which began on December 23, 2024. This new episode started at 5:20 am IST on February 16, 2026, inside the Halemaumau crater at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), which monitors volcanic activity, operates several live webcams that show the eruption in real time. Cameras positioned along the west, east and south rims of the summit capture dual lava fountains and glowing lava flows, especially visible at night.Since late 2024, Kilauea has recorded 42 episodic lava fountaining events. Each episode has typically lasted a day or less, followed by pauses as magma builds up beneath the surface. The latest eruption follows a 19-day break after Episode 41.
Gas Emissions and Wind Conditions
During peak activity, sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions have ranged between 50,000 and 100,000 tonnes per day. These emissions contribute to “vog,” or volcanic smog, which can affect air quality.
Daytime footage showed northeast winds pushing gas and volcanic material southwest near ground level. At higher altitudes, winds carried ash and particles eastward. Officials said all activity remains confined to the summit caldera, reducing risk to nearby communities.
Is the Eruption Hazardous?
Authorities have advised caution due to volcanic smog and ash, which can irritate the eyes and respiratory system. Lightweight volcanic material, including ash and Pele’s hair — thin strands of volcanic glass formed from cooling lava — can travel several miles downwind.
The volcano alert level remains at WATCH, indicating elevated unrest. The aviation colour code is set at ORANGE due to the height of the ash plume.
HVO continues to coordinate with park authorities and civil defence teams. Regular updates are being shared through official channels as the eruption continues.
Kilauea’s ongoing activity highlights the dynamic geology of Hawaii and continues to draw attention from scientists and viewers worldwide through live webcam feeds.
