The U.S. Geological Survey said it has detected an increase in seismic activity on the Big Island of Hawaii that is associated with the unrest of the Kilauea volcano.
The mountain is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth and has produced intermittent cycles of lava since September 29, 2021.
Volcanologists note that, despite hundreds of minor earthquakes, the volcano is not actively erupting.
However, changes in terrain resemble periods of increased activity.
“The inflationary trend continues at a slightly slower pace in the area just south of the summit caldera,” the UGS stated. “Inflation at the summit of Kilauea remains near its highest level in more than five years and has almost returned to the level seen just before the last eruption on September 10. “Seismicity beneath the Kilauea summit region, which began on October 4, has increased with about 320 earthquakes occurring in the past 24 hours.”
Due to elevated seismic activity and inflation at the summit of Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is temporarily closing specific trails, viewing areas and parking lots until further notice. Visit the park’s website for more information. https://t.co/kgHqKBoKpz pic.twitter.com/hCzqRndleS
— Hawaii Volcanoes NPS (@Volcanoes_NPS) October 7, 2023
Due to the potential dangers associated with seismic activity, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has closed some parking areas and trails in the vicinity of the summit.
“Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is closely monitoring Kilauea in collaboration with our colleagues at the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory,” the National Park Service said. “The park is currently open, but visitors should be prepared and stay informed.”
Outside of the national park, no other impacts have been reported from increased activity associated with the volcano.
A rising lava lake is seen inside the Halema’uma’u crater during the eruption of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii National Park, Hawaii, September 30, 2021. via REUTERS
“Sulfur dioxide gas emissions have decreased considerably; however, local concentrations of sulfur dioxide or hydrogen sulfide may persist in downwind areas, and residents may occasionally notice odors of these gases,” the USGS stated.
The volcano is more than 100 miles from Honolulu, which has a population of about 350,000. An eruption in 2018 destroyed more than 700 homes and caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damage.
The last time a significant episode of lava was witnessed coming from the volcano was in September.
The video captured a spectacular lava fountain emerging from the crater, but the impacts were limited to the national park.
Other nearby volcanoes, such as Mauna Kea, Hualalai and Mauna Loa, are in normal condition.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn