US: Kilauea Breaks Historic Eruption Record As Lava Fountains Reach 200 Meters.

Hawaii, United States - June 01, 2026 Kilauea set a new eruption record on Monday after erupting for the 48th time during the ongoing Halema'uma'u eruption. The latest event surpassed the previous record of 47 eruptive episodes recorded during the Pu'u'o'o eruption between 1983 and 1986. The current eruption began on Dec. 23, 2024. According to the USGS, "Episode 48 began at 4:40 am HST on June 1." The agency reported that lava fountains from the north vent were reaching heights of 500 to 650 feet (150 to 200 meters), while the resulting plume climbed beyond 20,000 feet into the atmosphere. An ashfall advisory was issued for communities near the volcano. The eruption has stood out for its regular activity. The USGS said Kilauea has produced approximately one eruptive episode every 10 days, reaching 48 episodes in about a year and a half. The previous record-holder required roughly three and a half years to reach 47 episodes. Repeated lava fountains have also altered the summit area, where vents have grown to more than 500 feet tall. The record-setting eruption followed a magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck Hawaii on May 23. The USGS said the earthquake was likely caused by the bending of the oceanic plate beneath the Hawaiian island chain and was not related to volcanic activity. It was the strongest earthquake recorded in Hawaii since 2021. Scientists see no indication that Kilauea's activity is ending, suggesting additional eruptive episodes may still occur. "The ongoing summit eruption is already an event for the history books, and has garnered worldwide attention due to its visibility and access," the USGS said. "No doubt, years from now, today's kids will be telling their grandchildren about these fountains."