THE CURRENT ERUPTION OF KILAUEA VOLCANO -- at a Glance

Lesson at a glance: Students will learn the major geologic events and structures associated with the current eruption of Kilauea Volcano.

Key Concepts: The current eruption began on the east rift zone of Kilauea Volcano in January 1983. Activity became localized at a central vent, Puu Oo, where 44 lava fountaining episodes occurred. In July 1986, activity shifted 2 miles (3 km) down the rift, and the Kupaianaha vent formed. The style of eruption also changed from episodic lava fountaining to continuous, quiet effusion of lava. Lava tube systems developed and transported lava to the coast, eventually destroying 181 homes, the Wahaula Visitor Center, and 7.5 miles (10 km) of road. The supply of magma to the Kupaianaha vent gradually declined in 1991 and stopped in February 1992. In November 1991, fissures opened along the rift between the Puu Oo and Kupaianaha vents and erupted lava for three weeks. Since February 1992, three different vents have formed on the lower slopes of the older Puu Oo cone. In November 1992, lava reached the ocean near the ancient village of Kamoamoa. As of February 1996, lava continues to reach the ocean near the end of Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The 13-year-long eruption has been the most voluminous and destructive on a rift zone in historical time.

Lesson Outcomes: The students will:

  1. see how the eruption and island have changed since 1983

  2. compare the current eruption to past eruptions in Hawaii

  3. recognize the hazards associated with living near a volcanic rift zone

  4. be able to place their observations of Kilauea's activity in a historical context of the eruption 
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