Research Investigates Drivers of Lava Fountains in Hawaii

In many instances, hotspot-driven volcanism is characterized by slow lava flows, allowing people to avoid danger. However, in certain locations such as Mount Etna, Hawaii, and Iceland, lava can be expelled in fountains that reach several hundred meters in height. Current research is exploring the mechanisms behind these phenomena. A recent study published in Science by researchers from the US Geological Survey provides detailed documentation of recent eruptions at the Kilauea volcano and compares these observations with existing theories regarding the forces that drive these lava fountains. Kilauea, which has three active volcanic regions known for fountaining, has produced a series of videos showing molten rock erupting from the Earth. Despite being the youngest and most active volcano in Hawaii, Kilauea has experienced only three fountaining episodes since 1823. This limited activity has prompted extensive research, leading to a comprehensive understanding of the volcano's structure. Previous studies have identified several lava residues located within a few kilometers of the surface, and the volcano is equipped with 35 data-gathering stations, including seismic, infrasound, geodetic, gas, and visual and thermal cameras.