Kīlauea Volcano Eruption Update – Tuesday, April 8

The 17th episode of the ongoing eruption at Kīlauea volcano began at 10:15 p.m. HST on April 7, 2025, with lava overflowing from the south vent. The eruption started earlier than expected, as scientists had anticipated it between April 10 and 13. The lava flow was preceded by an increase in glow from the south vent, indicating rising lava levels. By 2:50 a.m. HST on April 8, lava was overflowing, spreading across the floor of Halemaʻumaʻu, with low spatter fountains reaching 15-30 feet high.

The eruption is accompanied by a steady increase in seismic tremor and slight deflation in the UWD tilt. Lava fountains are expected to grow higher, as seen in previous episodes, where fountains reached over 1,000 feet. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions are elevated, potentially reaching 50,000 tonnes per day, similar to previous episodes. Visitors to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and nearby residents may be exposed to volcanic glass fragments (Peleʻs hair) carried in the plume, just as in episode 16.