Recent observations at Kīlauea’s summit have revealed low-level spattering and flames within the vents, following the installation of a new livestream camera. The V3cam, which was set up by the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) just last week, provided shaky footage due to strong winds in the caldera. On May 22, HVO staff managed to stabilize the camera by transitioning it from a tall mast to a more secure tripod setup.
As the camera adjustment took place, significant volcanic activity was occurring, with loud gas and ash emissions observed every six minutes from the south vent in Halema‘uma‘u. The V3cam is equipped with pan-tilt-zoom capabilities that aid in monitoring the ongoing eruptive activity and potential hazards associated with the volcano.
In addition to the camera setup, a geologist from HVO was observed using an FTIR spectrometer to analyze the composition of volcanic gas during periods of spattering and seismic tremors at the summit, further enhancing the understanding of Kīlauea’s eruptive behavior.
The ongoing monitoring efforts symbolize the commitment to safety and science in the face of volcanic activity. This thorough approach allows for timely updates on potential hazards, ensuring that both locals and visitors can stay informed about the remarkable natural events occurring at Kīlauea.