Kilauea Erupts, Spewing Ash and Lava
Kilauea volcano erupted in Hawaii on Tuesday, sending lava 1,000 feet high and causing ash warnings and temporary closures.
Ayla Demirhan ·
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupted on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, with lava fountains reaching 1,000 feet, prompting temporary closures of parts of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Highway 11 due to falling volcanic ash and fragments. This event marks the 43rd eruption episode since December 2024, with molten rock confined to the summit crater, posing no immediate threat to homes or structures.
The National Weather Service issued an ashfall warning, anticipating over 0.25 inches of ash accumulation in the national park and surrounding areas. Volcanic tephra can cause respiratory and skin irritation, and disrupt water catchment systems. Hawaii County officials opened a shelter, though it remained unused shortly after opening.
Previous fountaining episodes have deposited significant ash, requiring community clean-up efforts. Kilauea is recognized as one of the world's most active volcanoes, with one November eruption dispensing nearly 11 million cubic yards of lava.