The Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has erupted again, sending lava fountains and volcanic fragments high into the sky.
Scientists from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the eruption shot lava up to about 1,300 feet (400 metres) into the air.
What happened during the eruption
During the eruption, lava fountains from the volcano created a large plume of volcanic material.
This plume released tephra, which is made of small glassy fragments from volcanic eruptions.
The tephra fell within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and in nearby communities.
Did You Know?
There are about 1,350 potentially active volcanoes worldwide, aside from the continuous belts of volcanoes on the ocean floor at spreading centers like the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
What tephra is
Tephra is the name for the pieces of volcanic material thrown into the air during an eruption.
It can include volcanic ash, pumice, scoria, and thin strands of volcanic glass known as Pele’s hair.
These fragments are formed when molten lava cools quickly while flying through the air.
Where the heaviest fall occurred
The heaviest tephra fall was recorded at the Uēkahuna Overlook inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Scientists measured between 4 and 7 inches of tephra that had fallen in that area.
One of the world’s most active volcanoes
Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth and has erupted many times in recent years.
Scientists closely monitor the volcano to understand its activity and to help keep nearby communities safe.
Photo: Football-Sized” Volcanic Fragments Rain Down On Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
