Kīlauea Volcano Eruption: Episode 48 Update and Safety Advisories

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has confirmed that Kīlauea volcano is currently erupting. As of Monday, June 1, 2026, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) is monitoring “Episode 48,” which began at the volcano’s summit within Halemaʻumaʻu at 4:40 a.m. HST.

This latest eruptive event has prompted officials to raise the Volcano Alert Level to WATCH and the Aviation Color Code to ORANGE, reflecting the ongoing volcanic activity and potential hazards for the surrounding region.

Current Eruptive Activity

The eruption began with lava fountains emerging from the summit of Kīlauea. At their peak, these fountains reached heights of approximately 650 feet (200 meters). While the intensity of the fountains has gradually decreased since the start of the episode, the eruption remains active and is expected to continue for several more hours.

The activity has resulted in variable ash and tephra fall, which have been reported in the following areas:

• Public overlooks within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
• Highway 11 near Nāmakanipaio Campground
• Volcano village
• Mauna Loa Estates
• Ohia Estates

Geologists at the HVO note that there is currently no significant activity occurring along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. Monitoring of these areas remains a priority for the observatory.

Public Safety and Advisories

The National Weather Service has issued an ash advisory for south and east Hawaiʻi. Residents and visitors in these areas are advised to exercise caution due to the potential for tephra fall. Tephra, which consists of fragmented rock and volcanic glass, can impact air quality and visibility.

Key Takeaways

• Status: Kīlauea is actively erupting as of June 1, 2026.
• Location: Eruptive activity is contained within the Halemaʻumaʻu summit region.
• Alert Level: The current status is WATCH/ORANGE.
• Hazards: Ash and tephra fall are affecting nearby communities and park areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Aviation Color Code of ORANGE mean?

An ORANGE code indicates that the volcano is exhibiting heightened or escalating unrest with an increased potential of eruption, or that an eruption is underway with no or minor volcanic-ash emissions. It serves as a warning for aircraft to avoid the immediate vicinity of the volcanic plume.

Where can I find the latest official updates?

The U.S. Geological Survey provides the most authoritative, real-time information regarding Kīlauea. You can monitor the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s official updates for the latest notices, status reports and technical data.

As the situation continues to develop, local authorities and the USGS recommend that the public stay informed through official channels and follow any guidance provided by Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park regarding area closures and safety protocols.