Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano Throws a Big Ticket Blast—And We’re on the Edge
On May 9th, the ever‑eager Kilauea erupted with a thump that rattled the entire island—think of a giant drum roll that sends rocks flying like bowling pins, pumps ash up to 32 km, and turns the horizon into a smoky haze.
What Sent the Big Alert?
- Explosive ejection: A violent burst launched tons‑worth of rocks > 1 km, while pebble‑sized projectiles zipped up to several kilometres.
- Ash assault: A dramatic plume showered volcanic ash into the wind, threatening to blanket town after town.
- Hydro‑blast trigger: Water lapped into the molten lake, sparking steam‑driven explosions.
Who’s Saying “Beware”?
Dr. Tina Neal, the brains behind the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, warned on a conference call that this blast was just the opening act. “We’re likely on a string of similar events.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Donald Swanson served up a calm note: “No massive evacuations expected in Hawai‘i state. Just a nuisance of ash that stings your eyes and nose.”
Where’s the Dusty Drama?
- Hilo – Roughly 40 km north‑east of the volcano; could see vog‑laden skies if winds shift.
- Pahoa – About 39 km east; same potential for volcanic air pollution.
Hands‑On Life‑Changing Stories
David Nail, a retiree from Orange County, had his day turned upside‑down when a fissure opened 610 m away, belching lava and gas. “It sounded like ten or twenty jet engines,” he recalled, his home now a ghost town outside a lava wall. “All we could do was sit there and cry.”
A Quick Recap of the Chaos
- 14 new fissures opened since the Thursday eruption.
- 42 hectares of ground now cloaked in molten flow.
- Dual earthquakes: a 6.9‑magnitude smash on the south flank (the second‑largest in recent history).
- Expect more seismic and eruptive drama for months—watch the sky.
Tourist Note
The Volcanoes National Park remains open, but with revised caution. Pack a mask, bring spare clothes, and keep your eyes to the horizon—Hawaii’s doorstep may surprise you at any moment.