Kilauea Volcano: Episode 43 Eruption Concludes After Nine Hours
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park experienced a significant eruption event on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, as Kilauea volcano’s Halemaʻumaʻu crater entered its 43rd episode of activity. The eruption, characterized by impressive lava fountaining reaching heights of over 1,300 feet, concluded after approximately nine hours, prompting temporary closures and safety precautions for residents and visitors.
Eruption Timeline and Intensity
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that Episode 43 began at 9:17 a.m. HST, following precursory eruptions starting at 8:20 a.m. HST. Initial fountains rose from the north vent, with the south vent joining shortly before 10:00 a.m. Both vents quickly exceeded 1,000 feet in height, peaking shortly after 11:00 a.m. At an estimated 1,300 feet (400 meters) from both vents [Big Island Now].
By 2:00 p.m. HST, the south vent had decreased to 1,000 feet, and the north vent to 700 feet. Fountain heights continued to diminish, reaching 700 and 600 feet respectively by 5:00 p.m. Before the episode ended abruptly at 6:21 p.m. HST [Big Island Now].
Impact and Safety Measures
The eruption generated significant ashfall, with over a quarter-inch of tephra (ash and volcanic particles) accumulating within the first 90 minutes [Spectrum News]. Fallout, including particles the size of footballs, created hazardous conditions within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park [Hawaii News Now]. The National Weather Service issued ashfall watches and warnings for surrounding areas, which were later canceled.
Highway 11 was closed on both sides of the park at mile markers 24 and 40, and the Kilauea summit area of the park was closed to visitors, resulting in evacuations [Hawaii News Now]. Visitors staying at Kilauea Military Camp and Volcano House were permitted to remain with proof of reservation and identification, but were required to shelter in place. A shelter was opened at Kaʻū District Gym in Pāhala for impacted residents and visitors.
School Closures and Ongoing Monitoring
Volcano School of Arts & Sciences campuses were closed on Wednesday, March 11, for tephra clean-up, with all programs and activities canceled [Hawaii News Now]. Hawaiian Airlines also canceled some flights to Hilo due to the eruption [Star Advertiser].
The USGS continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and will provide further updates as needed. Residents are advised to take precautions to limit exposure to volcanic tephra, which can irritate eyes, skin, and the respiratory system [Hawaii News Now].