Hawaiian Volcano Observatory welcomes 150 international scientists to the Island of Hawai’i

HILO, Hawaii — From February 9-14, 2024, the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) will host an international gathering of approximately 150 volcanologists in Hilo to explore the impacts and insights of the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. In partnership with the American Geophysical Union, the Caldera Forming Eruptions at Basaltic Volcanoes conference will gather experts to share research on caldera-forming eruptions and their hazards. 

The 2018 eruption caused extensive damage, destroying numerous structures, and resulting in a major summit collapse. “Understanding these effects is crucial for improving volcanic preparedness and scientific understanding within our local and global community,” said Ken Hon, the Scientist in Charge of the HVO. 

“The innovative tools, knowledge, and techniques developed in the aftermath of the 2018 eruption improved monitoring and facilitate more robust models for forecasting future eruptions,” noted Ken Hon. Conference presentations will showcase new tools used during and after the eruption, including real-time satellite imagery, unoccupied aerial systems surveillance and imaging, and helicopter-mounted LiDAR. These technologies allow new and enhanced data collection to support volcano research. 

“We respect and care for the island residents affected by the 2018 eruption,” said USGS research geologist, Kendra J. Lynn. “The science developed here and informed by data collected in 2018 translates into better preparedness and informed responses to future volcanic activity on and off the island.” Although the conference will not be open to the public, prior to the conference, the volcano observatory will co-host a public presentation as part of Volcanoes National Park’s “After Dark in the Park” series to share related research from Iceland.