Residents and visitors are advised to limit exposure to volcanic ash and gases due to potential skin and eye irritation.

The National Park Service recommended that individuals with respiratory or heart conditions take precautions due to the high levels of volcanic gas emissions.

The USGS has downgraded Kilauea's alert level from 'Warning' to 'Watch,' although high levels of volcanic gas continue to pose a hazard, especially downwind of the summit.

USGS had issued warnings the previous week regarding the potential for an eruption due to observed seismic activity.

Volcanologist Leif Karlstrom noted that the eruptions displayed unusual consistency, which is atypical for volcanic activity.

The eruption produced a plume of volcanic gas and fine particles, reaching elevations of 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level, with winds carrying it southwest.

On December 24, 2024, Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, erupted, sending columns of lava soaring 80 meters (260 feet) into the air.

The eruption was preceded by increased earthquake activity detected around 2 a.m. local time, with webcam images showing lava emerging through fissures in the caldera.

Ken Hon, head scientist at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, noted that the eruption began at approximately 2 a.m. and is expected to continue for an extended period.

The eruption is occurring in a closed area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which has been off-limits to the public since 2007 due to hazards such as crater wall instability.

By approximately 5 p.m., experts reported that the lava covered just over one square mile, with an estimated thickness of 1 yard.

The eruption has attracted large crowds to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which remains open 24 hours a day, highlighting its popularity as a tourist destination.