Weak winds during episode 41 of lava fountaining at Kīlauea produced hazardous conditions as lava fountains rose from vents at the summit.
The activity began shortly before noon on January 24, 2026, within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Lava fountains from both the north and south vents exceeded 500 meters in height. Winds near the surface were weak from the south, while stronger upper-level winds carried plume material eastward.
Tephra fall was reported around the caldera, along Highway 11 near the park entrance, and in nearby communities including Volcano Village and Fern Acres. Highway 11 was closed between mile markers 24.5 and 32 due to falling tephra. Episode 41 ended abruptly at 7:29 p.m., though ash fallout may continue for several hours.
Source: USGSVolcanoes