Recent Magma Intrusion at Kīlauea Volcano: USGS Provides Detailed Information
The Kīlauea volcano in Hawaii has been experiencing recent magma intrusion, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) has provided detailed information on the event, shedding light on the seismic activity and ground deformation that has been occurring southwest of the volcano’s summit.
The magmatic intrusion took place between January 27 and February 3, 2024. During this period, there was a significant increase in seismicity and ground deformation extending southwest from the summit towards the Koa‘e fault system. On January 31, more than 700 earthquakes were detected, and ground cracks indicated the emplacement of a dike, which is a vertical sheet of magma.
The seismicity and deformation rates gradually decreased on February 1-2 and more significantly on February 3. As of February 9, seismicity and deformation have stabilized, suggesting that the event is waning. However, the possibility of renewed activity and an eruption with little advanced warning remains.
The USGS HVO raised the Volcano Alert Level for Kīlauea from ADVISORY to WATCH and the Aviation Color Code from YELLOW to ORANGE on January 31 when there was escalating unrest and an increased potential for eruption. The alert level was later lowered to ADVISORY and the Aviation Color Code to YELLOW on February 3 as volcanic activity decreased significantly but continued to be closely monitored.
The recent observations indicate that there has been low to moderate activity in the upper part of Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone. No significant activity was observed in the middle to lower regions of the East Rift Zone.
The interpretation and context of the seismic activity and ground deformation suggest that magma intruded beneath the south end of the caldera starting on January 27. This activity intensified on January 31, indicating the emplacement of a dike. The magma within the dike migrated southwest beneath the Koa‘e fault system.
The recent intrusive activity has led to the formation of ground cracks in three areas of the Maunaiki Trail in the Ka‘ū Desert. These cracks primarily cut through the loose Keanakāko‘i tephra, which covered the region in 1790 CE. Some cracks were over 100 feet long, indicating the extent of the intrusion.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time such intrusive activity has occurred in this region. Similar events have been recorded in the past, including in October and December 2023, August 2021, and May 2015. These intrusions have varied in duration and have sometimes led to eruptions within Halema‘uma‘u or in other areas.
The USGS HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea volcano for any signs of accelerated seismicity or ground deformation. While the overall decrease in activity suggests that the event is waning, there is still a possibility of renewed episodes of heightened unrest and an eruption with little advance warning.
In conclusion, the recent magma intrusion at Kīlauea volcano has caused significant seismic activity and ground deformation southwest of the summit. While the event is currently waning, there is still a possibility of renewed activity and an eruption. The USGS HVO is closely monitoring the volcano to provide updates and ensure public safety.