New USGS Data Release featuring laser rangefinder measurements at Kīlauea summit
The surface elevation of lava lakes is an important parameter that can provide insight on the underlying magma reservoir pressure as well as outgassing dynamics of the magmatic system. Lava lake elevation may also be useful in forecasting potentially hazardous eruptions on a volcano’s flanks (Burgi and others 2014; Patrick and others 2015, 2020). Precise measurements of lava lake elevation have been challenging in the past, due to thick volcanic gas plumes and the inaccessibility of most lava lakes. New technologies, such as laser rangefinders, provides new opportunities to measure lava levels with high accuracy and sample rates. In this data
Photo and Video Chronology — December 3, 2024 — Kīlauea summit webcam maintenance
The KWcam on the eastern rim of Kaluapele (Kīlauea caldera) has been sending blurry images due water condensation inside the camera enclosure. On December 3rd, 2024, HVO staff visited the webcam to dry out the enclosure and search for any perforations that may be the source of the leak. USGS photo by H. Winslow. A HVO geologist inspected the KWcam enclosure for potential water entry points and found a weak seal. HVO staff will likely return in the future to make repairs to the enclosure or replace it all together. USGS photo by J. Barnett. HVO staff also visited the