United States - December 23, 2025 Kīlauea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island erupted on Christmas Eve, sending lava fountains nearly 1,400 feet into the sky, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The eruption occurred at the Halemaʻumaʻu crater within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. It lasted almost six hours, beginning the evening of December 23 and ending shortly after 2 a.m. local time on December 24. Lava shot up to 1,000–1,400 feet from both the north and south vents during the eruptive episode. The event was captured live on USGS webcams, offering dramatic views of the volcano in action. USGS cameras first recorded signs of the eruption just after 2:30 a.m. local time, documenting the powerful display. Kīlauea is recognized as one of the world’s most active volcanoes. This eruption marked the 39th episode of the year. The previous, 38th eruption occurred earlier in December and lasted nearly 12 hours. Formed about 280,000 years ago, Kīlauea rose above sea level roughly 100,000 years ago, continuing its long history of activity that captivates both scientists and the public.