Kīlauea’s Episode 5 Eruption: A Brief but Fiery Display
Kīlauea’s ongoing summit eruption within Halemaʻumaʻu Crater has continued its episodic pattern, with Episode 5 flaring up on January 22, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. and pausing in the early morning hours of January 23 at 4:30 a.m. Though this latest phase was short-lived, it provided another incredible display of nature’s raw energy.
What Happened During Episode 5?
Lava Fountains: The northern vent erupted with impressive lava fountains reaching 100 feet (30 meters) high.
Southern Vent Activity: The southern vent was actively degassing but did not produce lava flows at the time.
Geological Monitoring: USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists measured the eruption using laser rangefinders and video footage, capturing this brief yet powerful event.
Following the pause of Episode 5, the Kīlauea summit has begun to inflate once again, indicating that another eruption episode could occur within the next 3-4 days, though scientists caution that more time is needed for precise predictions.
See Kīlauea’s Changing Landscape on the Discover Hilo Tour
While these eruptive episodes are short-lived, the landscapes they create last for generations. The best way to witness the impact of Kīlauea’s activity is from above, where you can see the vastness of the caldera, glowing lava flows, and the stunning beauty of Hawaii’s most geologically active region.
🚁 The Discover Hilo Tour by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers:
✅ Aerial Views of Kīlauea’s Summit – Fly over Halemaʻumaʻu Crater and witness fresh lava fields shaped by the latest eruption.
✅ Volcanic Black-Sand Beaches – See how lava meets the ocean, forming dramatic coastlines.
✅ Majestic Waterfalls – Soar above Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, two of Hawaii’s most breathtaking waterfalls.
✅ Lush Rainforest Landscapes – Experience Hawaii’s unique ecosystem thriving in the wake of volcanic activity.
This 50-minute helicopter journey provides a front-row seat to the ongoing volcanic transformation of the Big Island.
What’s Next for Kīlauea?
With continued inflation at the summit, scientists predict another eruption could occur soon. Monitoring instruments show that magma is still accumulating beneath the caldera, meaning future lava flows and fountaining episodes are likely.
Volcanic Hazards & Safety
Visitors to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park should remain cautious of the following hazards:
⚠️ Volcanic Gas Emissions – High levels of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) create vog (volcanic smog), which can impact air quality.
⚠️ Pele’s Hair – These fine glass fibers formed from lava fountains have been reported near the Volcano Golf Course subdivision.
⚠️ Unstable Terrain – Halemaʻumaʻu’s crater rim remains hazardous due to ground cracking and rockfalls.
While ground access is limited, aerial tours provide a safe and immersive way to experience Kīlauea’s volcanic power.
Book Your Helicopter Tour Today!
The Big Island is constantly evolving, and there’s no better time to witness its transformation. Whether Kīlauea continues to erupt or enters a quiet phase, its volcanic landscapes remain a must-see experience.
🔥 Don’t miss your chance to see Hawaii’s fiery heart from the sky! Reserve your spot on the Discover Hilo Tour today.