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Lava From Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano Oozes Into Ocean For First Time Since 2013
Lava From Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano Oozes Into Ocean For First Time Since 2013
Jan 17, 2024 3:35 PM

At a Glance

Lava from an eruption of Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano reached the ocean on Tuesday.The last time the flow reached the ocean was in 2013.The flow extending southeast of Pu'u O'o toward the coastal plain on Kilauea's south flank began on May 24.

Lava from an ongoing Kilauea eruption entered the ocean early Tuesday, creating photo opportunities for those brave enough to get close.

The United State Geographical Survey's said the lava flow extending southeast of Pu'u O'o toward the coastal plain on Kilauea'ssouth flank reached the ocean about 1:12 a.m. local time.

The flow started May 24 and it's the first time it has traveled south down Kilauea and across the coastal plain since 2013.

USGS officials are warning those venturing out to view the spectacular display to use caution:

"There are additional significant hazards besides walking on uneven surfaces and around unstable, extremely steep sea cliffs," wrote the USGS in an update. "Venturing too close to an ocean entry exposes you to flying debris created by the explosive interaction between lava and water."

(More: )

They warned that the new land created by the lava flow is unstable because it is "built on unconsolidated lava fragments and sand. This loose material can easily be eroded away by surf causing the new land to become unsupported and slide into the sea."

In addition, visitors should be careful to avoid the acidic plume that rises when the lava comes into contact with the water as the fine volcanic particles in the steam can irritate the skin, eyes and lungs."

A USGS photo shows the path taken by the lava.

(USGS)

Lava oozes into the ocean from Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano.

(Lava Ocean Tours)

The lava pouring into the ocean made for a spectacular show of fire and water.

(Lava Ocean Tours)

Steam rises as the lava comes into contact with the water.

(Lava Ocean Tours)

Looking at this photo, you can almost feel the heat.

(Lava Ocean Tours)

A tour boat gets up close and personal with the lava flowing into the ocean.

(Lava Ocean Tours)

Looking into the lava tube from the oceanside.

(Lava Ocean Tours)

A rainbow appeared over the lava flow as it approached the ocean on July 22.

(USGS)

MORE ON WEATHER.COM: Lava Landscapes

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