Introduction

The majestic Kīlauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii entered its fourth eruptive episode on January 15, 2025, continuing an eruption that began on December 23, 2024. This dynamic event is confined to the summit caldera, Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, where fountains of lava and glowing flows create a spectacular display of nature’s power. Visitors can safely experience this rare phenomenon from above with the Discover Hilo Tour by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.

Yesterday’s Eruption Highlights

Kīlauea’s fourth eruptive episode began with a lava flow from the north vent at 9:15 a.m. on January 15. The activity intensified throughout the morning, with fountaining lava reaching impressive heights:

North Vent: Lava fountains peaked at 330 feet.
South Vent: Fountains reached up to 160 feet.
Dynamic Lava Flows: Lava remained confined to the southwest crater floor near the active vents.

Volcanologists also reported falling volcanic glass particles, known as Pele’s hair, in nearby communities like the Volcano Golf Course subdivision. These delicate threads of volcanic glass highlight the eruption’s far-reaching effects.

Witness the Eruption from Above: Discover Hilo Tour

For an unparalleled view of Kīlauea’s eruption, the Discover Hilo Tour is a must. This breathtaking helicopter adventure by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers:

Highlights:

Volcanic Landscapes: Soar over Kīlauea’s summit caldera, witnessing active lava flows, glowing vents, and the dynamic terrain reshaped by the eruption.
Cascading Waterfalls: Fly above lush rainforests and discover Hawaii’s iconic waterfalls, such as Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls.
Black-Sand Beaches: See the island’s newly formed volcanic coastlines, where lava meets the sea to create dramatic black-sand beaches.

The Discover Hilo Tour combines the thrill of aerial views with the comfort of expert narration, making it the perfect way to safely witness Kīlauea’s ongoing activity.

Understanding Kīlauea’s Fourth Eruption Episode

Kīlauea’s current activity represents its sixth summit eruption since 2020. Each episode showcases the volcano’s dynamic nature, from intense lava fountains to periods of quiet pause.

Key Observations:

Gas Emissions: Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions spiked to approximately 10,000 tons per day during Episode 4.
Seismic Activity: Low earthquake counts and continuous tremors suggest stable summit activity.
Hazards: Volcanic smog (vog), Pele’s hair, and potential rockfalls remain key concerns for nearby areas.

Visitors are encouraged to stay informed through the USGS livestream and National Park Service updates.

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour for Kīlauea

A helicopter tour offers the safest and most comprehensive way to witness Kīlauea’s eruption:

Unobstructed Views: Experience the full scale of the eruption from above, including lava flows and fountaining vents.
Exclusive Access: Fly over areas inaccessible by foot or vehicle, including remote rainforest waterfalls and volcanic coastlines.
Expert Narration: Learn about Hawaii’s geology and culture from experienced pilots.

Conclusion

The ongoing eruption of Kīlauea is a reminder of the Big Island’s ever-changing landscape and the immense power of nature. With the Discover Hilo Tour by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, you can safely witness this extraordinary event while exploring the lush beauty of Hilo’s rainforests and waterfalls. Book your helicopter adventure today for an unforgettable experience!