US: Active volcano in Hawaii, Kilauea, gushes out hellish lava

KILAUEA: Recognised as one of the most active volcanoes on earth, Kilauea erupted on Monday on the big Island of Hawaii after a series of seismic events occurred beneath its summit.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the volcanic activity began around 2:30 am local time within the Halema’uma’u crater, part of the extensive Kilauea caldera located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Video footage circulating on internet showed lava flowing and fissures producing striking lava fountains  at the crater’s base.

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Kilauea is location on the island’s southeast coast, and attracts visitors from across the globe who want to observe volcanic activities.

The park is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the summits of both, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes in world.

The USGS updated the volcano alert level form advisory to warning, indicating that a dangerous eruption was either occurring or imminent.   

Seismic activity beneath Kilauea’s summit had been increasing since 2 am local time. This eventually led to the adjustment in alert status as well.

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory stated it would keep monitoring the situation and provide updates as needed.