by Donald B. MacGowan

The muted jungle light illuminates the lava trees at Lava Tree State Monument, Puna Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

There area many wondrous, enigmatic and fascinating attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii, some better known than others, many out of the way and generally off the beaten track.  Tour Guide Hawaii has produced an encyclopedic collection of the most up-to-date information, presented as short GPS-cued videos, in an app downloadable to iPhone and iPod Touch that covers the entire Big Island, highlighting the popular and the uncrowded, the famous and the secluded, the adventurous and the relaxing.

Lava Trees State Monument

The stately lava trees of Lava Tree State Monument, Puna Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Under a fascinating, beautiful, lacey canopy of monkeypod trees, lava casts of ohi’a trees stand as monuments to a fast-moving pahoehoe lava flow that passed through here in 1790.

The jungle tree canopy filters and shades an eerie light at Lava Trees State Monument, Puna Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Contained within the Nanawale Forest Reserve, south of Pahoa and just off Highway 132 between mile markers 2 and 3, Lava Trees State Monument is open free, daily from dawn to dusk. Hiking in the park is relaxing and interesting, showcasing the native Hawaiian plants and trees, the forest birds as well as the fascinating Lava Trees themselves

Looking into a tree mold at Lava Trees State Monument: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

The lava trees formed when the liquid lava, at about 2000° F, came in contact with the cool, wet ohi’a trees.  A quickly-cooled coating of lava congealed around the trees and buried them to a depth of as much as 11 feet.  The original trees burned away, but their hollow casts stand today, so perfectly molded inside that imprints of the tree bark remain. The rest of the flow passed on, perhaps draining away down the numerous cracks in this area that formed contemporaneously with the flows; one of the cracks which likely drained the lava away is still visible, just left of the restrooms.

THis rift was both the delivery tube of the lava stream and the conduit down which it drained away after forming the lava trees at Lava Trees State Monument, Puna Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Lava Trees Park offers trails to hike and a restful, bird-filled jungle to sit and listen to.  You can spend between 20 minutes to an hour wandering the trails, here, exploring and discovering.  Be careful, however, the area is riddled with hidden cracks in the ground which can make exploring hazardous.

A 0.7 mile trail winds through Lava Trees State Monument, connecting to other jungle hiking trails through the Pahoa area, Puna Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Facilities include picnic tables and a barbecue, trails, drinking water and restrooms. You may wish to avail yourself of the restrooms at Lava Tree State Monument; no matter which direction you go after leaving the Park, they are the last public facilities for some distance.

Looking through the forest at two lava trees and the awesome crack through which the lava drained away: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

To see the new iPhone/iPod Touch App, please visit http://www.tourguidehawaii.com/iphone.html. The best of Tour Guide Hawaii’s free content about traveling to, and exploring, the Big island, can be found here. For more information on traveling to Hawaii in general and on touring the Big Island in particular, please also visit www.tourguidehawaii.com and www.tourguidehawaii.blogspot.com.

THese standing monoliths are the casts of Ohi'a trees made by pahoehoe lava flowing through a forest in 1790; Lava Trees State Monument, Puna Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

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This lava mold of an Ohia tree was made by fast-moving pahoehoe lava flow in 1790: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

All media copyright 2009 by Donald B. MacGowan. All rights reserved.

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 9-15 December 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Concepción (Nicaragua), Galeras (Colombia), Mayon (Philippines), Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat).

Ongoing activity: Chaitén (Chile), Dukono (Indonesia), Fuego (Guatemala), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Manam (Papua New Guinea), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Pacaya (Guatemala), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), Santa María (Guatemala), Shiveluch (Russia), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Concepción (Nicaragua). On 11 December an explosion of ash and gas produced a plume that rose 150 m above the crater. Ashfall was reported in three nearby communities.

Galeras (Colombia). An overflight on 3 December revealed thermal anomalies in the main crater measuring 155 degrees Celsius. During 8-11 December, seismic activity decreased although some seismic signals resembled patterns seen prior to previous eruptions. Sulphur dioxide emissions were low. On 12 December seismicity increased, and during 12-15 December earthquakes of up to magnitude 2.2 were detected within 2 km of the summit and at depths of up to 3 km below the summit. The Alert Level was raised to II (Orange: ‘eruption probable within days or weeks’).

Mayon (Philippines). On 11 December an explosion was detected by the seismic network. On 14 December incandescence emanated from the lava dome in the summit crater and incandescent material traveled as far as 3 km down the S and SE flanks. At least five minor explosions were detected by the seismic network. Some local ashfall was reported. The Alert Level was raised to 3, prompting the order to evacuate about 50,000 people living within an 8-km radius from the base of the volcano.

Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion). On 14 December an eruption was preceded by a seismic crisis and summit deformation. Sub-parallel fissures along the rim of Dolomieu crater fed lava flows on the S slope. A third fissure that also produced lava flows opened on the E flank. The lava stopped flowing during the night after a gradual decrease. On 15 December, gas was emitted from the S and SE fractures and low-intensity tremor was detected.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 4-11 December activity from the lava dome continued at a high level and pyroclastic flow activity was concentrated on the N side. Pyroclastic flows traveled as far as 2 km NW into Tyers Ghaut and NE in abundance down Tuitt’s Ghaut, and sometimes Whites Bottom Ghaut, continuing onto Farrell’s plain. A few small pyroclastic flows also descended the Tar River valley to the E. On 10 December a large seismic signal was associated with a relatively large pyroclastic flow in Tyers Ghaut that traveled 3.5 km, stopping just beyond the W end of Lee’s village. The event prompted the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Advisory Committee (NDPRAC) to raise the Hazard Level to 4, restricting the hours residents can enter certain pre-designated hazard areas.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Chaitén (Chile). On 12 December Buenos Aires VAAC reported that a steam-and-gas plume from the lava-dome complex drifted SE at 1.5-2.1 km a.s.l.

Dukono (Indonesia). During 9-11 December during 9-11 December ash plumes rose to 3 km a.s.l. and drifted 90-130 km E and SE.

Fuego (Guatemala). Explosions on 11, 14 and 15 December produced ash plumes that rose to 4.1-4.7 km a.s.l. and drifted 8-12 km W and SW. Incandescence from the main crater and rumbling noises were noted. Avalanches descended the S and W flanks. Washington VAAC reported that on 12 December a gas-and-ash plume drifted 20 km W. On 15 December ashfall was reported in areas to the SW.

Karymsky (Russia). Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a thermal anomaly during 3 and 6-7 December. Ash deposits extended 45 km SE on 6 December. A new lava flow was seen on the S flank on 8 December. Seismic data were seldom available due to technical problems. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 9-15 December lava flowed SE from beneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system, reaching the ocean at multiple locations between Waikupanaha and areas farther to the W. Towards the beginning of the reporting period thermal anomalies detected by satellite and visual observations revealed occasional active lava flows. Incandescence was seen almost daily from Pu’u ‘O’o crater. The vent in Halema’uma’u crater continued to produce an off-white plume that drifted predominantly to the SW, dropping small amounts of ash downwind. Incandescence originated from a few holes in the deep floor of the vent cavity. On 13 December, lava ponded on the floor, crusted over, and blocked the holes. Incandescence was again visible the next
night.

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 4-11 December seismic activity was above background levels and lava continued to flow down the ESE flank. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 200-300 m above the crater. During 5-9 December gas-and-steam plumes containing small amounts of ash rose to 6.3 km a.s.l. and drifted E. Satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Manam (Papua New Guinea). On 12 December Darwin VAAC reported an eruption that produced a plume that rose to 3 km a.s.l. and drifted 75 km N.

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). On 10 December Washington VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to 7 km a.s.l. and drifted S. Ash was not identified in satellite imagery due to meteorological clouds in the area. During 9-15 December seismic signals indicated occasional gas-and-ash emissions. White and bluish gas plumes seen on the web camera rose 2 km. Overflights revealed that the lava dome continued to grow and emit gases.

Pacaya (Guatemala). White and blue fumarolic plumes from MacKenney cone rose up 100 m and drifted S on 11, 14 and 15 December. Multiple lava flows on the S flank traveled 25-350 m. Incandescence from one of the inter-crater cones was noted.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). Strong explosions followed by emissions of grey ash occurred from Tavurvur cone towards the beginning of the 4-10 December reporting period. Diffuse white vapor was emitted during quieter intervals. Ash plumes rose 1 km above the summit and drifted SE towards Tokua and the Tokua airport, causing suspension of some flights. Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 14 December an ash plume rose to 2.1 km a.s.l. and drifted 35 km SE.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions during 9-15 December produced plumes that rose to 1.8-2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted NE, E, SE and S. On 14 December a pilot reported that an ash plume drifted S at 2.7 km a.s.l.

Santa María (Guatemala). On 11, 14 and 15 December explosions from the Santiaguito lava dome complex produced ash plumes that rose to 2.8-3.5 km a.s.l. and drifted W and SW. Avalanches occasionally descended the SE flank of the dome. On 15 December, explosions generated pyroclastic flows that descended the E and SW flanks.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 4-11 December seismic activity was above background levels, possibly indicating ash plumes rising to an altitude of 5.5 km a.s.l. Fumarolic activity was seen with a video camera. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly from the lava dome and an ash plume drifting 85 km SE on 6 December. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange. Tokyo VAAC reported that on 13 December an eruption produced a plume that rose to 5.8 km a.s.l.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported eruptions on 14 and 15 December. Plumes rose to 1.2-1.5 km a.s.l. and drifted E.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 9-15 November 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

We arrived in Hilo yesterday after an unexpected detour to Oakland CA airport. The pilot said that we had a Pineapple Express coming in across the Pacific Ocean and he wanted to make sure that he had enough fuel to get us to Honolulu. So with the detour, delay, and missing the connecting flight from Honolulu to Hilo, we made it to Hilo after dark. No further adventures occurring at Hilo, we made it to the Inn at the Volcano on Wright Road just in time to go to bed.

Places:
We spent most of the day in Kilauea, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. At the Kilauea Caldera, we saw the steam (or poisonous sulfur gas? – some of the park was closed due to gas) vent out of the Halema’uma’u crater. We took a short walk on the crater rim trail above the Waldron Ledge (400 feet cliff?). Spectacular view!

Kilauea Caldera view from Crater Rim Trial

We drove toward the Jagger museum hoping to take a good look inside the crater. But we had to turned around because the museum was closed due to high gas density driven that direction by the wind. We were very disappointed. Instead we drove up to the Mauna Loa Lookout at 6,000+ft elevation. The road up Mauna Loa passes through Bird Park, and we saw lots of interesting birds (now if only we could accurately identify them. On the way back down a weaselly looking animal darted out from the roadside, glanced up the road at us, dashed across, and then to our amazement repeated the trick, crossing back to his original side. That one we could identify, thanks to a clear park brochure – it was a mongoose! In our surprise at the antics – no pics – bummer.

Along the way

Kalij Pheasant

Back down Mauna Loa we past the park entrance again; we weren’t giving up on the Jagger Museum but were disappointed for the 2nd time. It’s still closed. So we drove along the Crater Rim Drive and went to the Pu’u Pua’i Overlook. It was unbelievable to see that you can actually walk on the trail inside the Kilauea Iki Crater. See photo.

Next stop – live lava at Kalapana. Following the excellent advise of our trusty guidebook – “The Big Island Revealed” we called the Hawai’i County lava hotline to see if the county road past Kalapana to the current flow was open; yes it is said the message; and off we trundled – driving essentially back to Hilo to get on another road to the southern coast near Kalapana. It’s about 40 miles (at an average speed of 35mph). But when we arrived – oh bitter disappointment – the wind had shifted and the viewing area was closed due to the unhealthful nature of the volcanic emissions blowing our way (wanna bet the Jagger museum is open? – not a chance – and besides we couldn’t possibly make it back in time). So it’s back to the room at the inn and to bed.

Food: Tummy Ahoy!
Kilauea Lodge. We went there for breakfast. Supisa had Pahoehoe Lava (two eggs, toast, bacon, papaya salsa, hash brown). Terry had Eggs Benedict. Yep, exactly. The place had a nice ambiance, a nice big open room, very large fireplace, and huge vaulted ceiling; we sat by the window with view onto a quiet garden.

Thai Thai Restaurant. Supisa ordered fried rice, a large portion; She could only finish half and had to take the rest to go. The price was relatively reasonable; food in Hawaii seems expensive. No restaurant in Thailand asks how spicy you want your food, it just arrives appropriately spiced and the table has some extra flavoring – chiles in vinegar, sugar, chile flakes, etc. But this restaurant asked how spicy on some sort of 10 point scale – 10 is real Thai – BS! Oh well – at a 6 the flavor was a pretty decent replica of Thailand.

T & S

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The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 2-8 December 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Llaima (Chile).

Ongoing activity: Ambrym (Vanuatu), Chaitén (Chile), Colima (Mexico), Dukono (Indonesia), Fuego (Guatemala), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), San Cristóbal (Nicaragua), Shiveluch (Russia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Llaima (Chile). Steam-and-gas plumes were observed rising from the main crater and E flank during 14 November-1 December. Although seismicity generally decreased, a new type of long-period, low-frequency earthquake was detected. An overflight on 4 December revealed fumarolic activity and some sulphur dioxide emissions coming mainly from fissures on the N crater wall and outer E and W flanks. The Alert Level was raised to Yellow, Level 3.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Ambrym (Vanuatu). A diffuse plume from probably largely composed of sulphur dioxide was visible on satellite imagery acquired by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on 3 December.

Chaitén (Chile). Buenos Aires VAAC reported that emissions from the lava-dome complex drifted 15 km SE on 8 December.

Colima (Mexico). On 1 December a white plume rose 100 m above the crater and drifted E. On 2 December, incandescent tephra was ejected 50 m above the crater towards the SE. Later that day, a white plume rose 50 m and drifted SW.

Dukono (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported that during 5-6 December ash plumes from Dukono rose to 3 km a.s.l. and drifted 55-85 km NE and SE.

Fuego (Guatemala). Multiple explosions on 4 December produced ash plumes that rose to 4.2-4.7 km a.s.l. and drifted 15-18 km W. Ashfall was reported in communities downwind. Rumbling noises and incandescent block avalanches were also noted.

Karymsky (Russia). Seismic activity was above background levels during 27-30 November and 1 December. Data were not available during 2-4 December due to technical problems. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly and ash plumes that drifted 165 km E during 29-30 November and 1-2 December. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 2-8 December lava flowed SE from beneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system to reach the ocean at multiple locations between Waikupanaha and an area 700 m farther to the W. Thermal anomalies detected by satellite and visual observations revealed active lava flows on the coastal plain. Incandescence was occasionally seen from Pu’u ‘O’o crater; on 2 December, incandescence originated from vents on the E wall. The vent in Halema’uma’u crater continued to produce a white or off-white plume that drifted E, W, and SW, and dropped small amounts of ash downwind. Incandescence originated from multiple spattering holes in the deep floor of the vent cavity.

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 27 November-4 December seismic activity was above background levels and lava continued to flow down the ESE flank. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 300 m above the crater. Satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). During 27 November-3 December dense white plumes and gray ash plumes rose from Tavurvur cone. Strong explosions produced ash plumes that rose 1.5 km above the summit and showered the flanks with lava fragments that were incandescent at night. Shock waves rattled windows in the Kokopo area, about 20 km SE. Incandescence from the summit crater was occasionally noted. During 2-4 December, ash fell in Rabaul town (3-5 km NW) and other villages downwind. Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 5 and 7-8 December ash plumes rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted 45-55 km E.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions during 2-8 December produced plumes that rose to 1.5-2.7 km a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. On 4 and 8 December, pilots 30-65 km S of Kagoshima airport reported ash plumes that rose to an altitude of 1.8 km a.s.l. and drifted SW and NE.

San Cristóbal (Guatemala). Washington VAAC reported that on 6 December a gas-and-steam plume with possible ash drifted SW, and also noted smoke from local fires.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 27 November-4 December seismic activity was above background levels, possibly indicating that ash plumes rose to an altitude of 4.5 km a.s.l. Fumarolic activity was seen with a video camera. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly from the lava dome and gas-and-steam plumes, possibly with ash, drifting 70 km E on 27, 28, and 30 November. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange. Tokyo VAAC reported that on 4 December an eruption produced a plume that rose to an altitude of 5.8 km a.s.l.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 27 November-4 December activity from the lava dome continued at a high level. Pyroclastic flow activity was concentrated to the NE and W. The largest pyroclastic flows traveled NE down Tuitt’s Ghaut on 27 November and 2 December, reaching within 200 m of the sea. Associated ash plumes rose to altitudes of 4.6-6.1 km a.s.l. Pyroclastic flows also traveled W down Gages Valley, S down the White River valley and Gingoes Ghaut, and into the upper reaches of Tyers Ghaut (NW). One descended the Tar River valley to the E. Rockfalls cascaded directly from the summit of the lava dome into Tyers Ghaut. Ash venting from the S part of the lava dome was noted several times. Ashfall containing accretionary lapilli, reported from Salem, Old Towne, and parts of Olveston on the evening of 27 November, was associated with a pyroclastic flow down Tuitt’s and White Bottom Ghaut. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion from Suwanose-jima during 5-6 December. Details of possible resulting emissions were not reported.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 2-8 December 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 25 November – 1 December 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Galeras (Colombia), Gaua (Vanuatu), Karkar (Papua New Guinea), Sarychev Peak (Russia).

Ongoing activity: Chaitén (Chile), Dukono (Indonesia), Fuego (Guatemala), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), Sangay (Ecuador), Shiveluch (Russia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Galeras (Colombia). The Alert Level for Galeras to was lowered from Orange to Yellow on 27 November after several days of low seismicity with occasional signals indicative of minor gas and ash emissions. An overflight on 26 November revealed gas emissions from the interior walls of the main crater and thermal anomalies with temperatures of 200 degrees Celsius. During 27 November-1 December, seismicity remained low and signals indicated gas emissions.

Gaua (Vanuatu). On 18 November a large explosion from Gaua’s Mount Garat was followed by high dense ash plumes. Seismicity increased on 25 October and remained significant through 24 November. According to news articles, an explosion that caused ashfall in inhabited areas on 26 November prompted the evacuation of more than 300 people. The Alert Level was raised to 4, the second highest level on a scale of 0-5. [Volcanism Blog note: There is no official confirmation of this reported rise in Alert Level. As of 3 December 2009 the Vanuatu Geohazards Observatory gives the Alert Level as 2 - although it should be noted that the VGO site is often slow in updating.]

Karkar (Papua New Guinea). On 25 November Darwin VAAC reported an eruption that produced a plume that to 13.7 km a.s.l., and stated that ash had merged with a thunderstorm cloud and had become unidentifiable. On 26 November another ash plume was reported to have risen to 9.1 km a.s.l. Confirmation of ash emissions was not available from RVO at the time of the posting of this report. [Volcanism Blog note: Local reports, and the lack of corroboration from other sources, strongly indicate that this eruption never took place. Darwin VAAC's reports were almost certainly based on erroneous interpretations of satellite data.]

Sarychev Peak (Russia). A thermal anomaly on was detected by satellite on 25 November. Steam-and-gas emissions were noted on 25, 26 and 29 November.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Chaitén (Chile). Buenos Aires VAAC reported that on 26 November a diffuse plume from the lava-dome complex drifted ENE.

Dukono (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported that on 30 November an ash plume from Dukono at 3 km a.s.l. was observed on satellite imagery 75 km E.

Fuego (Guatemala). Washington VAAC reported that on 29 November a small plume possibly containing ash, drifted 10 km SW. A thermal anomaly was also detected. On 30 November and 1 December, INSIVUMEH reported that explosions produced ash plumes that rose to 4.3-4.7 km a.s.l. and drifted 8-15 km W and SW. Rumbling noises were noted and incandescent block avalanches were generated.

Karymsky (Russia). Seismic activity was above background levels on 23 and 25 November; technical reasons mean data were not available on other days during 20-27 November. Elevated seismicity possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to 3.8 km a.s.l. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly and ash plumes that drifted 120 km E on 23 and 25 November. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 25 November-1 December lava flowed SE through a lava tube system from beneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex, reaching the ocean at multiple locations between Waikupanaha and an area 700 m farther to the W. A small bench collapse may have occurred on 27 November. Thermal anomalies detected by satellite and visual observations revealed active surface lava flows on the coastal plain. Incandescence was occasionally seen on the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor. The vent in Halema’uma’u crater continued to produce a white or off-white plume that drifted mainly SW and dropped small amounts of ash downwind. Incandescence originated from a lava pond deep in the vent cavity floor; the lava pond circulated and spattered during 25-26 November and 1 December. Measurements indicated that the sulphur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated: 1,000 tonnes/day were measured on 28 and 30 November (2003-2007 average rate = 140 tonnes/day).

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). Seismic activity was above background levels and lava continued to flow down the ESE flank during 20-27 November. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 300 m above the crater during 21-25 November. Satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). During 25 November-1 December gas plumes rose 8.4 km a.s.l. and drifted downwind. Seismicity included both tremor indicative of gas emissions and hybrid earthquakes. An overflight on 25 November revealed that the newest lava dome had continued to grow. Based on pilot observations, the Washington VAAC reported that on 26 November a gas plume, possibly containing ash, rose to 7.6 km a.s.l. Ash was not identified in satellite imagery, although low weather clouds were present in the area. A sulphur dioxide plume was emitted on 30 November at a calculated rate of 3,900 tonnes/day.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). During 20-26 November thick white plumes and gray ash plumes rose from Tavurvur cone. Strong explosions produced ash plumes that rose 1.5 km above the summit and showered the flanks with lava fragments that were incandescent at night. Shock waves rattled windows in the Kokopo area, about 20 km SE. Occasionally, incandescence from the summit crater was noted.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions on 26 November and 1 December produced plumes that rose to 1.8-2.7 km a.s.l. and drifted SW and E. Ash was seen in satellite imagery on 26 November.

Sangay (Ecuador). Washington VAAC reported that on 1 December an ash plume rose to 7.9 km a.s.l. and drifted W. Ash was not identified in satellite imagery, although low weather clouds were present in the area. Later that day, an eruption was reported, but ash was again unidentifiable in satellite imagery.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 20-27 November seismic activity was above background levels, possibly indicating that ash plumes rose to 4.3 km a.s.l. Fumarolic activity was seen using a video camera. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly from the lava dome. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 20-27 November activity from the lava dome continued at a high level. Activity increased on 21 November and periods of tremor were detected on 23 November. Lava extrusion during this period shifted from the W side of the lava dome to the summit region. As a result, abundant pyroclastic flows traveled NE down Tuitt’s Ghaut on 23 November for the first time in several weeks. On 24 November there was a period of 120 minutes of continuous pyroclastic flow activity, followed by 90 minutes of semi-continuous activity. The pyroclastic flows traveled W down Gages Valley and into Spring Ghaut, and NE down Tuitt’s Ghaut and Whites Bottom Ghaut reaching Tuitt’s village. Associated ash plumes rose to an altitude of 6.1 km a.s.l. On 26 November, a pyroclastic flow that descended the Tar River valley was caused by collapse of part of the old, pre-2009 lava dome. Ashfall occurred in Old Towne and parts of Olveston. Incandescent material seen in a photograph taken at night on 29 November traveled down the flanks of the lava dome in several areas. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that on 26 November an ash plume was seen by a pilot 65 km S drifting NE at 3 km a.s.l.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 25 November – 1 December 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 18-24 November 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Galeras (Colombia), Sarychev Peak (Russia).

Ongoing activity: Batu Tara (Indonesia), Chaitén (Chile), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Pacaya (Guatemala), Popocatépetl (Mexico), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Reventador (Ecuador), Sakura-jima (Japan), Santa María (Guatemala), Shiveluch (Russia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Galeras (Colombia). An explosive eruption occurred on 20 November. Local inhabitants reported five explosions, sound waves and crater incandescence. The resulting ash plume was reported by Washington VAAC to have possibly risen to 14.3 km a.s.l. The plume drifted N, and ashfall was reported 10 km N, NNW and E. Seismicity increased after the eruption and then gradually decreased, and the alert level was lowered on 21 November from Red to Orange (‘eruption probable within days or weeks’).

Sarychev Peak (Russia). On 21 November a thermal anomaly was detected by satellite.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Batu Tara (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported an ash plume to 2.4 km a.s.l. which drifted 90 km NW on 24 November.

Chaitén (Chile). Buenos Aires VAAC reported a gas plume from the lava-dome complex on 23 November which rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted SSE.

Karymsky (Russia). Seismic activity was above background levels on 12, 14 and 16 November, with no data available for other days during 13-20 November because of technical reasons. Elevated seismicity possibly indicated ash plumes rising to 3 km a.s.l. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly and ash plumes that drifted 130 km E during 12-14 and 17 November. Tokyo VAAC reported that on 23 November an eruption produced a plume that rose to 4 km a.s.l. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 18-24 November lava flowed SE through a lava tube system from beneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex to reach the ocean at multiple locations between Waikupanaha and an area 700 m further W. Thermal anomalies detected by satellite and visual observations revealed active surface lava flows at locations on and at the base of the pali, at the TEB vent, and on the coastal plain. Incandescence was seen on the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor. The Halema’uma’u crater vent continued to produce a white or off-white plume that drifted mainly SW and dropped small amounts of ash downwind. Incandescence originated from a circulating and spattering lava pond that occasionally rose above and drained back below holes in the vent cavity floor. On 21 November, a sliver of the rim collapsed and was followed by an explosion that produced a dense brown plume that dissipated after a few minutes. The sulphur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated: 700-1,100 tonnes/day was measured during 18-20 and 23 November (2003-2007 average rate = 140 tonnes/day).

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 13-20 November seismic activity was above background levels. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 200 m above the crater during 13-15 November. On 14 November, a new lava flow traveled 500 m down the ESE flank. Satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Pacaya (Guatemala). White and blue plumes from MacKenney cone rose up to 400 m and drifted SSW on 20 and 24 November. Multiple lava flows on the S and SW flanks traveled 100-250 m SE and SW. Incandescence was observed at night.

Popocatépetl (Mexico). During 18-20 November steam-and-gas plumes were emitted that sometimes contained ash. On 21 November a small explosion was detected by the seismic network, accompanied by an ash plume that rose to 8.9 km a.s.l. and drifted E, causing ashfall in Atlixco (23 km SE), Huejotzingo (27 km NE), and areas in the state of Tlaxcala.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes from Tavurvur cone rose to 2.1 km a.s.l. and drifted 35-90 km NW on 19 November.

Reventador (Ecuador). Based on a pilot observation, Washington VAAC reported that on 20 November an ash plume from Reventador rose to 6.1 km a.s.l. A thermal anomaly was detected on satellite imagery.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions on 18 and 23 November produced plumes that rose to 2.1-2.7 km a.s.l. and drifted S and E.

Santa María (Guatemala). On 20 November two explosions from the Santiaguito lava dome complex produced an ash plume that drifted SW. Avalanches descended the SW flank of the dome. An explosion on 24 November produced an ash plume the rose to 3.3 km a.s.l. and drifted SE. Ashfall was reported in areas downwind.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 13-20 November seismic activity was above background levels, indicating ash plumes possibly rising to 5.3 km a.s.l. Video cameras observed fumarolic activity and hot avalanches on 14 and 15 November. A large daily thermal anomaly on the lava dome was detected by satellite. Tokyo VAAC reported that on 18 November an eruption produced a plume that rose to 5.5 km a.s.l. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 13-20 November activity from the lava dome consisted of ash venting along with semi-continuous rockfalls and pyroclastic flows that were concentrated on the W flank. Ashfall occurred across many areas of the island. Views of the lava dome on 16 November showed that the dome height had decreased because of collapses and that a deep channel had developed NE of Chances Peak. Pyroclastic flows in the Gages Valley (W) continued down Spring Ghaut and Aymer’s Ghaut, and spread onto the alluvial fan below St. Georges Hill. On 19 November, heavy ashfall occurred to the NW between Old Towne and Brades. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion from Suwanose-jima on 18 November. Details of possible resulting emissions were not reported.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 18-24 November 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

by Donald B. MacGowan

Kilauea Lava Stream at Night: Photo courtesy of Big Island Air

Whether you visit the Big Island for a few days, a couple weeks or a few months, you want to make the most of your time in Paradise. With such a wide variety of natural and commercial attractions, it is natural for the visitor to get a little overwhelmed in the “Option Overload” and not be able to make a balanced and informed decision on what they want to do and how best to spend their time.

Amanda Maus at Thurston Lava Tube, Hawaiii Volcaoes National Park: Photo by Uncle Donnie MacGowan

Even choosing which beach you want to spend time on, or where you want to hike can be an exercise in confusion and conflicting advice.  Clearly, visitors to Hawaii could use help making quality decisions about how best to spend their time.

The Pacific Ocean and Waikupanaha Ocean Entry Explosion Plume at the End of Chain of Craters Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

Tour Guide Hawaii is excited and proud to announce the release of their new GPS/WiFi enabled App for iPhone and iPod that helps you navigate your trip to Hawaii with hours of informative, location-aware video and information. Although our video guide will lead you to dozens of unusual, untamed and unspoiled spots, let’s look at a scenic drive through one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and highlight just a bit of the information you might not be able to find from maps and guidebooks that could otherwise cause you to miss some very interesting places and amazing sights if you did not have Tour Guide Hawaii’s new App.

Dusk at the Waikupanaha Lava Ocean Entry, Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

A Scenic Drive Through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Introduction

La'epuki Lava Ocean Entry, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a magical, spiritual, wondrous, strange and beautiful place comprised of great contrasts and contradictions: dry as dust desert to teeming tropical jungle; frigid sub-arctic wasteland to steaming black sand beaches to rivers of flowing lava.

Kilauea Crater and Eruption of Halema'uma'u, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The star attractions in the Park are a pair of active volcanoes; Mauna Loa is the largest mountain on earth and Kilauea is most active volcano on earth. However, there are numerous other wonders from lava tubes to crawl down, black sand beaches with sea turtles to watch, mysterious petroglyph fields to explore, tropical jungles to hike through, endangered bird species to find, happy-face spiders to amuse and an otherworldly volcanic landscape so fresh it’s still steaming.

Hikers warily approach a stagnant lava flow whose surface is still glowing gently, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. During daylight hours, an access fee is charged. The Visitor Center has a 24-hour information line at 808.985.6000 and there is a 24-hour eruption hotline at 808.987.8862. Within the Park tune to A.M. radio 530 for continuous information broadcast. There are tourist items available for sale, and one restaurant and in the park; however, generally, shopping, restaurants and gasoline are mainly only available in the nearby village of Volcano.

iPhone and iPod Touch Video Tour Guide for Hawaii-fully GPS and WiFi enabled, fully interactive. Hours of interesting and compelling content. Available from iTunes or at www.tourguidehawaii.com.

There are four main roads which access most of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: the Mauna Loa Scenic road, which lies above the visitor’s center and winds up the slopes of Mauna Loa; Crater Rim Drive which circumnavigates the summit crater of Kilauea Volcano; Chain of Craters Road which runs down the southeast rift zone along a series of volcanoes and pit craters to the ocean and Hinlina Pali Road, which cuts across Kilauea Volcano to the cliffs along the sea.

Mauna Loa Scenic Road

View of Mauna Loa from the Mauna Loa Scenic Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

This gateway to the southern flank of the world’s largest mountain, Mauna Loa, lies about 2 ½ miles west of the main entrance to the park. The road traverses lava desert, ohi’a scrub savanna, fern forest and ends at the start of the hiking trail to the icy heights of Mauna Loa’s summit.

Lava Tree Molds, Mauna Loa Scenic Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

A small fork road heading east just after the start of Mauna Loa Road leads to a series of tree molds that formed when lava poured through the deep tropical forest. The trees were too wet to burn and the lava simply cooled around the trunks. Later, as the trees rotted, these unusual, deep pit molds were left behind. Definitely worth a visit, there are even pit toilets available at the Tree Molds.

About 1 ½ miles further along Mauna Loa Road is Bird Park, or Kipuka Puaulu. A forested island in a giant lava flow, this micro-ecosystem preserves forest plants and animals and is a haven to many bird members of Hawai’i’s endangered species. Cool, quiet, restful and inviting, there is a one-mile nature trail around this tropical forest oasis.

Looking into a Lava Tree Mold, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Mauna Loa Road is closed at various elevations at various times due to fire hazard. If one has the time and an adventurous heart, it is well worth the trip to drive to the end of the road and perhaps even hike a ways up it. The start of the Mauna Loa summit trail is here, but for even hardy hikers, that goal is at least two days hard hiking distant. The world’s largest active volcano is a LOT bigger than it looks!

Crater Rim Drive

Sunrise Mauna Loa from Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

A fine introduction to the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Crater Rim Drive circles the summit crater of Kilauea Volcano, including Halema’uma’u Crater, the home of Madame Pele. The drive runs 11 fabulous and amazing miles through arid, barren volcanic desert, ohi’a forest and grassland and lush fern jungle. The most interesting sites along the drive are the Visitor’s Center, Jagger Museum, Halema’uma’u Crater, Kilauea Iki Crater, Devastation Trail and Thurston Lava Tube. Although the circuit can be made in under 40 minutes, one should allow at least three hours even to begin to explore this fantastic place; if you have never been here before, you certainly have never seen anything like it. Many people who plan to rush through the Park find themselves utterly engrossed, wind up spending much more time than they planned here and extemporaneously changing their plans, cutting time from some other attraction. Best plan to spend sufficient time here in the first place.

Halema'uma'u Crater, The Home of Madame Pele: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Experience has shown that the impact of the landscape is much greater if the drive is done anti-clockwise

Below are some suggested highlights along Crater Rim Drive. The road currently is closed between Jagger Museum and the intersection with Chain of Craters Road due to the eruption in Halema’uma’u Crater. Also, bear in mind that there are no services available along Crater Rim Drive, except for restrooms, drinking water and the book shop at Jagger Museum..

Frank Burgess Browses the Kilauea Visitor's Center Book Shop at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Kilauea Visitor Center: Newly remodeled and updated, the Kilauea Visitor’s Center is an outstanding resource of information on Hawaii’s volcanoes and the National Park; the not-to-be-missed first stop in the park you must make. The Center is run by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff that has the most up-to-date information on viewing the eruption, hiking and camping, bird watching, stargazing and just about any other topic of interest to Park visitors. Available for sale in the Center are maps, guidebooks, books and videos about the volcanoes, Hawai’iana, history, plants and every topic you can imagine pertinent to the Park, even souvenirs. There are free brochures and pamphlets on various trails, attractions, hiking safety and lava viewing hazards and precautions.

Visitors Inspect the 3-D Physographic Map of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at the Kilauea Visitor's Center: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

The Visitor Center is open daily from 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.; there are public restrooms, water and pay phones available. Starting at 9 a.m. and showing every hour on the hour is a 20 minute informative movie about the Park; the film changes from time to time, but always contains spectacular footage of eruptions, information on volcanology and the natural and human history of the Park. For information, please call their Info Hot line at 808.985.6000.

The Halema'uma'u Eruption from the Jagger Museum, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Jagger Museum and Hawai’i Volcano Observatory: Famed for its fabulous views of Mauna Loa and Kilauea as much as for its interesting exhibits, The Jagger Museum (named for geologist Thomas A. Jagger) is open daily from 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. Exhibits include murals by Herb Kawainui Kane, seismograph charts of eruptions and earthquakes, geological displays and displays about the natural and human history of the Park.

Jagger Museum Parking lot is near a Nesting Ground for the Endangered Nene Goose, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

When entering the parking lot of the Museum/Observatory, be especially careful of the Federally-protected Hawaii Goose, the Nene, who seem to congregate here. The Nene is the State Bird of Hawai’i, and this parking lot and its surrounding area constitute one of the best places for viewing them.

Everet Maynard Explores the Entrance to Thurston Lava Tube, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Thurston Lava Tube: Nahuku, the Thurston Lava Tube, gives the visitor an opportunity for a close-at-hand inspection of the inner plumbing of a volcano. It also makes for an interesting and unique way to escape the noonday heat or afternoon shower, briefly. Lava tubes form when the outer crust of a flowing river of lava begins to cool and crust over, but the lava continues to flow beneath it; as the margins of the flow begin to cool and form walls growing towards the middle, the nascent tube is formed. When the flow has completely drained away, the lava tube is left behind.

Inside Thurston Lava Tube, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Thurston lava tube is a remarkably large, well-preserved and accessible example of a lava tube-type cave. An easy, 0.3 mile trail (about a 15 minute hike) winds through lush fern forest alive with singing birds and buzzing insects, down into a collapse crater entering the lava tube and slipping about 300 feet through the well-lighted, floored cave, popping up through a skylight in the tube and returning to the parking lot. A very easy walk and certainly a “must see” for any visitor to the park.

Eric Carr Enters Thurston Lava Tube, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

When Lorrin Thurston, founder of the Honolulu Advertiser, found the cave in 1913, the roof reportedly was covered with stalactites, now there are none—it is said that rapacious tourists removed every one in the intervening years.

Chain of Craters Road

Rainbow at Kealakomo Overlook, Chain of Craters Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

Following along Kilauea’s East Rift Zone, Chain of Craters Road passes through an amazing array of rift volcanoes, pit craters, lava trenches and flow fields. This road traverses and opens-up some of the most wild and beautiful landscapes seen anywhere, terminating near the active lava flows from Kilauea Volcano. Perhaps nowhere else on earth are the elements high mountains, wild seascapes and active volcanoes and their lava flows more dramatically displayed. Altogether, Chain of Craters Road is a singular and essential addition to any visit to the Island of Hawai’i. Crazily switching-back repeatedly down the Holei Pali, Chain of Craters Road finally reaches the untamed and scenically wild coastline, where giant waves spray and spume over sea cliffs dozens of feet high. Towering steam plumes in the distance at the end of the road mark where unimaginably hot liquid rock pours into the wild, wild sea. A place of mystery, a place of power, a place of wonder

Pitifu; Remnant of a Once Enormous Rain Forest on the Holei Pali, Now Surrounded By Fresh Lava: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Once connecting Volcano Village through the Park to Puna and State Routes 130 and 137 at Kalapana, Chain of Craters Road has repeatedly been badly damaged by earthquake, buried in lava, re-routed and re-built and broken up and buried again. The current eruption, which began in 1983, has buried a significant portion of the currently-closed nine miles of road between its temporary end inside the Park and the eastern closure at the town of Kalapana, outside the eastern edge of the Park. The road is now closed at the 19-mile marker, right at Holei Sea Arch.

Visitors Walk Through the Pu'u Loa Petroglyph Field, Hawaii Volcanoes National Parl: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Collapse features, such as the numerous “pit craters” found along the Chain of Craters Road, form when lava drains out of subterranean chambers, causing the surface to collapse. Notice how all the debris seems to point downward into the bottom of the crater; there is no material around the rim of the crater that is suggestive of eruptive or explosive events. On the walls of the crater, one can see numerous, inter-layered, pre-collapse lava flows and airfall beds that were truncated by the collapse and exposed.

Petroglyphs at Pu'u Loa, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

If a car ride back up the pali can be arranged, riding bicycles round Crater Rim Drive and down Chain of Craters road can be a momentous and fun excursion. Starting slightly above 4200 feet in elevation and ending at virtually sea level, this 22 mile drop from misty mountain cloud forest, running through tropical rain forest and into tropical desert is invigorating physically, stunning visually and makes a wonderfully memorable addition to any visit to the Island of Hawai’i. However, if you decide to pedal the 4200 feet elevation and 22 miles back up Chain of Craters Road to Kilauea Summit in the heat of day, this will also ensure a quite memorable, though far less pleasant, addition to your visit.

Sea Cliffs, Sea Arches, Wild Surf and Magnificent Bird Watching Near the End of Chain of Craters Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

There are no services, water, food or gasoline available along the length of Chain of Craters Road. Do not underestimate the draw of this area on your imagination and your spirit; you WILL spend more time here than you think. Plan ahead, get food, water and gas before venturing down the road. Remember, after dark on the South side of Hawai’i Island, it is virtually impossible to find gasoline or food for sale along the highway between Volcano VIllage west to Kona or north to Kea’au.

Hilina Pali Road

Vast Ocean Vistas and Incredible Sunsets are Some of the Rewards for Exploring Hilina Pali Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

At 2.2 mile down Chain of Craters Road is the turn off to the Hilina Pali Road. This road is 9 miles of some of the most spectacular, lonely and striking scenery in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Spectatcular coastal views, strangely-colored rock and twisted trees under weird skies make this an fantastic side trip for exploration and photography. Be especially careful when driving this road, it is mostly only one lane and there are more people enjoying this trip through the backcountry than you might think.

Kulanaokuaiki Campground on Hilina Pali Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

About halfway to Hilina Pali Overlook is the Kulanaokuaiki Campground. Set amongst rifts, collapse features and flows, this desert campground is secluded and spectacular. Driving further across the broad lava flows, past panoramic vistas of Mauna Loa, along the spectacular drop-off of the Hilina Pali (literally “cliff of faith”), one comes to the Hilina Pali Overlook, a great place for a picnic or short hike.

Mauna Loa from Hilina Pali Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Connecting with several longer trails across the Ka’u Desert, Kilauea Crater, or down the Pali to such abandoned coastal villages as Halape and Keauhou, the Hilina Pali Overlook is the central cross-roads of back-packing trails which crisscross the park

Spectatcular coastal views, strangely-colored rock and twisted trees under weird skies make Hilina Pali Road a fantastic side trip, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

Hilina Pali Road, due to its remoteness and lack of bus traffic, is a great place for a mountain bike ride, birding, or just getting away from crowds and tours. There are magnificent views, heart-stopping sunsets and pit toilets at the Campground and Overlook,. There is no water or other services available. Hilina Pali is a nesting place for the endangered Nene, the Hawai’i State bird, which is related to the Canada Goose. Hilina Pali Road may be closed during Nene nesting season.

Devil'sThroat, Just Across Chain of Crater's Road from the hilina Pali Road Intersection: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Less than 1/10 of a mile from Hilina Pali road is the unmarked Devil’s Throat collapse crater…an excitingly vertically-sided pit that is worth the visit just for the “okole squeezing” peering down the throat will give you.

End of Chain of Craters Road

Holei Sea Arch, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

The end of Chain of Craters Road is currently at the 19 mile marker near the Holei Sea Arch. This is where the road was cut off by flowing lava which also destroyed the 2 million dollar Visitor Center. When the lava is flowing near the road, one can walk right up to it. There are displays about the volcano and natural history of the area, as well as a wealth of information on hiking to, and viewing, the lava, available here.

Hiking to the La'epuki Lava Ocean Entry from the End of Chain of Craters Road, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Hiking all the way out to the active flows is one of the most spiritually rewarding, awe-inspiring, curiosity quenching and amazing things one can do anywhere in the world—but it is neither for the physically unfit nor the meek of spirit. It is a long, hot hike (currently seven miles) over broken ground and glass-sharp rocks; the heat from the volcano is savage; the weather, if clear, is sweltering…frequent squalls blow in off the ocean and the rain and wind can get pretty wild out on the lava plain where there is absolutely no cover or shelter to protect you. No water or shade is available anywhere along the hike. Plan assiduously before you go, make sure you have TWO working flashlights per person for the long hike back in the dark.

Lava Viewing Near Kalapana

Yet another lava viewing photo from Waikupanaha, Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

At this time, there is nowhere else can you see lava flowing from a volcano into the sea; no Big Island visit is complete without seeing this awe-inspiring show. Currently lava is only flowing into the sea outside the Park. From the belt Highway, turn south at Kea’au on Highway 130, continuing through Pahoa to the 20 mile marker; take the exit clearly marked “Lava Viewing”, a right branch about, for two miles to the parking area. Port-a-potties are available here. The road is open from 2 p.m. until 10; no cars allowed in after 8. Lava viewing information is available from Hawaii County at 808.961.8093; check conditions before you go. The easy trail, a 20 minute stroll to the viewing area, is well-marked.

Littoral Explosion Plume at Waikupanaha Lava Ocean Entry, Hawaii: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

The quality of viewing varies as lava flows nearer or farther from the trail. Viewing is best at dusk so bring flashlights for the hike out. Take close-toed walking shoes and a hat, long pants and long-sleeved shirt, at least 2 liters of water, sun block and a rain jacket and camera. It’s a good idea to bring a tripod for your camera, or your shots will be blurred. Remember food and gas are not available anywhere nearby after dark, so fill up BEFORE you park, bring snacks and drinks. There are port-a-potties available at the parking lot.

Kilauea Lava River, Hawaii: Photo Courtesy of Big Island Air

To see the new iPhone/iPod Touch App, please visit http://www.tourguidehawaii.com/iphone.html. The best of Tour Guide Hawaii’s free content about traveling to, and exploring, the Big island, can be found here. For more information on traveling to Hawaii in general and on touring the Big Island in particular, please also visit www.tourguidehawaii.com and www.tourguidehawaii.blogspot.com.

The Best Lava Viewing at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is from the Air: Photo by Shannon Walker

Copyright 2009 by Donald B. MacGowan. All rights reserved.

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 11-17 November 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Galeras (Colombia), Mayon (Philippines).

Ongoing activity: Arenal (Costa Rica), Bagana (Papua New Guinea), Chaitén (Chile), Fuego (Guatemala), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kizimen (Russia), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Popocatépetl (Mexico), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Reventador (Ecuador), Sakura-jima (Japan), Sangay (Ecuador), Santa María (Guatemala), Shiveluch (Russia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Galeras (Colombia). On 14 November an overflight revealed thermal anomalies reaching 110°C in the main crater and very low rates of gas discharge. The Alert Level remained at Orange, ‘eruption likely within the next few days or weeks’.

Mayon (Philippines). On 11 November an explosion prompted an evacuation of about 700 families from areas near the volcano. Crater incandescence at night was visible from 15 km away on 14 November.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Arenal (Costa Rica). During October activity from Crater C consisted of gas emissions, sporadic Strombolian eruptions, and occasional avalanches that traveled down the W and SW flanks. Acid rain and small amounts of ejected pyroclastic material affected the NE and SE flanks. Avalanches from lava-flow fronts traveled down the SW flanks. Crater D produced only fumarolic activity.

Bagana (Papua New Guinea). Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to 3 km a.s.l. and drifted 65 km SW on 12 November.

Chaitén (Chile). During 31 October-1 November the lava-dome complex produced steam plumes sometimes containing gas and ash which rose no more than 1 km above the lava domes. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Fuego (Guatemala). Washington VAAC reported that a gas plume possibly containing ash drifted SSW on 12 November. Explosions on 13 November produced ash plumes that rose 4.2-4.7 km a.s.l. and drifted 7 km S. Rumbling noises and incandescence were detected. White fumarolic plumes rose 100 m and drifted S and SW. Small plumes of ash on 16 November were seen on satellite imagery.

Karymsky (Russia). During 5-9 November seismic activity was above background levels, possibly indicating that ash plumes rose to 3.7 km a.s.l. Analyses of satellite imagery during 5-12 November revealed almost daily thermal anomalies and ash plumes that drifted 190 km E during 8-12 November. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange. Tokyo VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3.7 km a.s.l. and drifted E on 14 November.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 11-17 November lava flowed SE from underneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system to reach the ocean at multiple locations between Waikupanaha and an area 700 m farther to the W. Thermal anomalies detected by satellite suggested active surface lava flows. Incandescence was seen on the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor and intermittently from an East wall vent. The vent in Halema’uma’u crater continued to produce a diffuse white plume that drifted W and SW. Incandescence originated from a spattering lava pond inside the vent cavity. Measurements indicated that the sulfur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated: 600 tonnes/day was measured on 16 November (2003-2007 average rate = 140 tonnes/day).

Kizimen (Russia). Seismicity was slightly above background levels on 6, 8, and 10 November and at background levels the other days during 7-13 November. The Level of Concern Colour Code was lowered to Green.

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). Seismic activity from Kliuchevskoi was above background levels during 6-13 November. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 300 m above the crater on 5, 7, and 10 November. Satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). During 11-17 November gas plumes from Nevado del Huila were seen on the web camera rising 2.5 km and drifting downwind. Ash plumes sometimes accompanied the gas emissions on 12, 13, and 15 November. Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Washington VAAC reported that during 11-16 November thermal anomalies were seen intermittently through cloud cover. The Alert Level remained at Orange, ‘eruption likely within the next few days or weeks’).

Popocatépetl (Mexico). On 14 November an ash plume to 7.4 km a.s.l. During 14-17 November, steam-and-gas plumes sometimes contained ash.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes from Tavurvur cone rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted 75-150 km NW and W during 11-14 November.

Reventador (Ecuador). Washington VAAC reported that ash plumes from Reventador drifted 10-20 km WNW and W on 14 November. An intermittent thermal anomaly was also detected.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions during 11-13 and 15-17 November produced plumes that rose to 1.5-2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions.

Sangay (Ecuador). Washington VAAC reported that small plumes possibly with ash drifted WNW on 16 November. A thermal anomaly was also detected.

Santa María (Guatemala). An explosion from the Santiaguito lava dome complex produced a plume that drifted SW on 13 November. Avalanches descended the SW flank of the dome. Washington VAAC reported that on 16 November multiple ash plumes drifted WSW.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 6-13 November seismic activity was above background levels, possibly indicating that ash plumes rose to 5.5 km a.s.l. On 5 November ash plumes rose to 4.2 km a.s.l. and hot avalanches were noted during 10-12 November. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly on the lava dome and ash plumes that drifted 320 km E on 11 November. Tokyo VAAC reported that on 14 November an eruption produced a plume that rose to an altitude of 4.9 km a.s.l. The Level of Concern Colour Code remained at Orange.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). Activity from the lava dome continued at a high level during 6-13 November, with pyroclastic flows mainly occurring towards the W down Gages Valley and SW down Gingoes Ghaut. Observations on 9 and 10 November revealed that recent lava-dome growth was concentrated on the WSW side, immediately NE of Chances Peak, and intense incandescence and rockfalls were noted at night. Ash fell across the Montserrat on 11 November, and about 6-8 km NW in Salem, Old Towne, Olveston, and Woodlands on 12 November. The largest pyroclastic flow during the reporting period descended WSW on 12 November and nearly reached the sea at Kinsale village. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported explosions on 12 and 16 November. Details of possible resulting emissions were not reported.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 11-17 November 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

Wanted to share some video clips we took several weeks ago at Kalapana with our little Nikon digital camera. Can’t believe how close we got to burning lava. This particular day was very special, felt like a pilgrimage of sorts.

What struck me at the viewing area was the reverential vibe in the crowd. Never imagined that watching melting rock burn would have such a mesmerizing and calming effect. It seemed to have the same effect on everyone around me, and we knew we were witnessing something special, a fleeting glimpse into the roots of Hawaiian culture. Humbling. Awe-inspiring. Beyond words.

Check it out:

Copyright © Tim Sullivan 2009

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 4-10 November 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Batur (Indonesia), Galeras (Colombia), Karangetang [Api Siau] (Indonesia), Mayon (Philippines), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion), Reventador (Ecuador), San Vicente (El Salvador).

Ongoing activity: Chaitén (Chile), Dukono (Indonesia), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Koryaksky (Russia), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), Santa María (Guatemala) Shiveluch (Russia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Batur (Indonesia). From September to 7 November increased seismicity was reported, and there was a significant increase in the number of volcanic
earthquakes on 8 November. The Alert Level was raised to 2 (on a scale
of 1-4).

Galeras (Colombia). Seismic activity decreased during 7-10 November, although some seismic signals resembled patterns seen prior to previous eruptions. No sulphur dioxide emissions were detected. The Alert Level remained at II, Orange (‘eruption probable within days or weeks’).

Karangetang [Api Siau] (Indonesia). News articles reported a pyroclastic flow and a lahar on 4 November. Residents saw active lava flows the next day. On 11 November, incandescent material was ejected 5 m into the air.

Mayon (Philippines). On 11 November an explosion at the summit crater ejected incandescent rock fragments that were seen from nearby, and ashfall took place to the SW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 0-5).

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). Overflights on 4, 6, and 10 November revealed a continued high rate of lava dome growth, with the volume of the new lava dome estimated at about 25 million cubic metres. Small collapses were occurring on the W part of the dome. Gas emissions were sometimes accompanied by pulsating ash emissions. Sulphur dioxide plumes rose 2.5 km above the lava dome and were seen in satellite imagery and the web camera drifting with the prevailing winds. Washington VAAC reported that thermal anomalies on the volcano were seen intermittently through cloud cover during 4-6 and 10 November. An ash plume was reported on 7 November at an altitude of 9.4 km a.s.l., and a plume was seen drifting ESE on satellite imagery. Later that day, an ash plume was seen on satellite imagery and on the web cameras drifting SE at an altitude below 7.3 km a.s.l. The Alert Level remained at II, Orange (‘eruption probable within days or weeks’).

Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion). On 5 November a vent inside the S part of Dolomieu crater opened, following an intense seismic crisis. Within thirty minutes, a fissure on the upper SE flank propagated E and a second fissure opened on the E flank. Lava fountains 20 m high and ‘a’a lava flows were emitted from both fissures. The Alert Level was raised to 2. Lava flows ceased by the morning of 6 November and the Alert level was lowered to 1 later that day.

Reventador (Ecuador). On 5 November Washington VAAC reported an ash plume to an altitude of 7 km a.s.l. which drifted NE. Ash was not seen in satellite imagery, although meteorological clouds were present. An ash plume was reported to have risen 500 m above the crater on 7 November.

San Vicente (El Salvador). Heavy rains caused landslides and flooding in the town of Verapaz, about 6 km NW of the summit of San Vicente, during 7-8 November. Mud and boulders swept down the flanks of the volcano, and in conjunction with flooded rivers, buried homes and cars. At least 144 people were killed and about 60 were reportedly missing.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Chaitén (Chile). The lava-dome complex continued to grow during 16-30 October. The Alert Level remained at Red.

Dukono (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to 3 km
a.s.l. and drifted 35 km NW on 8 November.

Karymsky (Russia). Seismic activity at Karymsky was above background levels during 29-31 October. Technical reasons meant data was not collected during 1-4 November. Seismic signals possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to 3.7 km a.s.l. on 31 October and 5 November. Analyses of satellite imagery during 29 October-5 November revealed almost daily thermal anomalies and intermittent ash plumes that drifted 180 km E. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange. Tokyo VAAC reported that eruptions on 8 and 10 November produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 3-3.4 km a.s.l. Ash was not identified on satellite imagery.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 4-10 November lava flowed SE from underneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system, reaching the Waikupanaha ocean entry and a second location, 700 m farther to the W. Thermal anomalies detected in satellite images and visual observations revealed active surface lava flows. Breakout lava flows were located inland of the Waikpuanaha entry and also W of the County Public Viewing trail. The last remaining structure on the flow field burned on 3 November. Incandescence was seen from the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor and an East wall vent during 6-7 November. The vent in Halema’uma’u crater continued to produce a diffuse white plume that drifted SW and likely produced some ashfall. Incandescence originated from a spattering lava pond inside the vent cavity. Preliminary measurements indicated that the sulphur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated: measurements were 700 tonnes/day on 6 November and 400 tonnes/day on 9 November (2003-2007 average rate = 140 tonnes/day).

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 30 October-6 November seismic activity was above background levels. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 300 m above the crater and fumarolic activity was occasionally noted. Satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Koryaksky (Russia). During 30 October-6 November seismic activity did not exceed background levels. Fumarolic activity was noted on 29 October and during 4-5 November. The Level of Concern Color Code was lowered to Green.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). Darwin VAAC reported that on 9 November an ash plume from Tavurvur cone rose to an 1.8 km a.s.l. and drifted 110 km NW.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions during 4-10 November produced plumes that rose to 1.8-2.7 km a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. Pilots reported ash plumes that rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. on 5 November and to 1.2 km on 9 November. Plumes drifted E and N, respectively.

Santa María (Guatemala). On 6 November an explosion from the Santiaguito lava dome complex produced a plume that rose 900 m and drifted SW. Washington VAAC reported that on 8 November a small gas plume possibly containing ash drifted less than 10 km SSW. Another small plume was seen later that day.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 30 October-6 November seismic activity was above background levels and possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to 4.7 km a.s.l. Fumarolic activity was noted and analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large
thermal anomaly over the lava dome. According to video camera data, ash plumes rose to an altitude of 8 km a.s.l. on 30 October. Ash plumes seen on satellite imagery drifted 130-255 km E on 30 October, and 1 and 5 November. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 30 October-6 November activity from the
lava dome was at a high level, with hybrid earthquakes recorded for the first time since the renewal of activity in early October. Numerous pyroclastic flows occurred in most of the major drainage valleys. On 4 November pyroclastic flows were seen traveling SW down Gingoes Ghaut to within 200 m of the sea. The frequency of pyroclastic flows increased on 5 November and particularly vigorous flows occurred in Tuitt’s Ghaut to the NE. Ash fell in inhabited areas on a few occasions. Lahars descended the Belham Valley to the W several times. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions during 4-5 November produced plumes that rose to 1.2-1.8 km a.s.l. and drifted SW and W. An explosion was also reported on 6 November.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 4-10 November 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

Got your attention now, did I?! You dirty, dirty reader! However, this is a report on the hottest (by temperature) things available for viewing via webcam – Volcanoes! It’s the closest (and safest) way to get close to an active volcano without having to leave your jammies… although, you know, you should change out of those once in awhile. Now, don’t get TOO excited because the chances of you clicking the link at the exact time something awesome is going on won’t be frequent, but you could get very lucky! My suggestion is to keep an eye on the VolcanoLive site, or perhaps the USGS, and bookmark the most active.

And now for a couple of the best webcam volcano sites I’ve found:

Mt. St. Helens, Washington State, US

Mt. St. Helens is located in the county of Skamania in Washington State. It is a stratovolcano, or composite cone. These are generally the most recognized volcanoes with their pyramid-like shape and often violent eruption capability. Although it’s last, most famous eruption was in 1980, it has been quite active since. Usually it will give off plumes of steam via its lava dome in the crater, but it has been known to emit lava – even within the past few years. Although it has been referred to as an active volcano, studies are showing that the possibility of another eruption a la 1980 aren’t in this strato’s future anytime soon. This is a near real-time image of Mount St. Helens, taken from the Johnston Ridge Observatory. The Observatory and VolcanoCam are located at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet, about five miles from the volcano. It’s not a streaming feed, but it is updated every few minutes. I’ve only caught a little steam every now and again, but on the clear days (especially in the mornings) the shot of this volcano is gorgeous.

Kilauea, Hawaii, US

Kilauea is a massive shield volcano on Big Island, Hawaii. The photo here is just a small snippet of what this feature really is. Shield volcanoes are ridiculously massive, mostly length-wise, but many still have height comparable to certain stratos. The gradient is not as steep and the eruptions are not as violent here, but they are a lot more frequent and the terrain is easier to trek (albeit not always safer). Now, there are several great sites on Kilauea – one of which on the USGS site that has four different webcams (seamed together for a panoramic view) pointed at the Puʻu ʻŌʻō Cone. Because of the weather and positioning, chances are you’ll see cloudiness often, but I have seen some really beautiful shots of lava flow – particularly at night. (If the camera is dark, it’s not broken… it’s just dark and there isn’t any activity!)

There are quite a few different sites that have supposed cams for active volcanoes, but there aren’t that many that ACTUALLY have live (or recently time-lapsed video) footage of one. Choose at your own discretion – or just go visit one in person! Make sure you change clothes first, though.

Kilauea at sunset

Photographs of brilliant orange lava flowing from the Big Island into the Pacific Ocean are abundant in most Hawai’i travel books. But since the sky is rarely as blue, the forest hardly ever as green as full-color glossy photos make them seem, we didn’t expect to witness Hawai’i’s land development in tangerine, molten lava force. We ended up driving right to it.

The viewing site, operated by Hawai’i County, places visitors what feels about a mile or so from the location where lava enters the Pacific. Open from 5pm-10pm (last car in at 8pm), the site requires a short hike over hardened lava.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: When molten lava flows into the cold ocean, it hardens and can shatter. This process creates the black sand beaches found throughout Hawai'i.

After a visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where we learned both geology and myth, we set out at the viewing site with rain jackets and flashlights. In daylight, massive plumes of smoke rise where lava enters the ocean.

An orange glow illuminated the billowing cloud as the sun dipped. And when twilight turned to blackness, lava sputtered into a haze where crashing waves merged with the smoke. Scattered spots of orange, the path of lava traveling toward the ocean, showed on the hillside like a rain forest lizard weaving its way down through dark underbrush.

For current eruption info on Kilauea check out these sites:

USGS Eruption Updates: Kilauea
http://volcanoes.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php

USGS Hawai’i Volcano Observatory
http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/observatory/

National Park Service: Hawai’i Volcanoes
http://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm

        Pete the picture bear decided it was time to get out of this icky weather and take a trip to Hawaii!  Here he is      pictured in Chicago O’Hare with his plane getting ready to go to Los Angeles. (Don’t you just love his luggage!?!)   He didn’t quite make it to Los Angeles in enough time to catch his next flight to Honolulu.  It was okay though, he was fortunate enough to take the next flight!

      After 10 hours on an airplane Pete finally made it around 12:45am Green Bay Time 7:45pm Honolulu time.  He was exhausted…but not too exhausted to get his lei, welcoming him to Hawaii!  His lei was made with fresh tuberose and orchids.  It smelled beautiful!  After Pete checked into his hotel room for the night he was too excited to sleep, so he did a little shopping and got to experience the night life in Honolulu in Waikiki Beach and had a little midnight snack at Cheeseburgers In Paradise!  Since Pete had a long week full of exciting places to go and see, he decided to turn in for the night and couldn’t wait for the sunrise in the morning.  

Saturday, Pete was up bright and early to watch the sunrise, he did a little more shopping and some sight seeing then he was on his way to check in for his cruise around the islands.  Such a big ship for a little bear!  Sunday and Monday Pete spent his days in Maui visiting Lahaina, the Iao Valley, a plantation

 and the Maui Ocean center, where he was up close and personal with sea turtles!  Tuesday and Wednesday Pete visited the Big Island where he visited Mt. Kilauea (one of the most active volcanoes in the world!!)  He could even feel the heat given off by Kilauea by the Halema`uma`u Crater.  It felt just like an oven!!  Pete also got to see some waterfalls, and spent all day Tuesday laying on the beaches of Kona (He got a little sun burned) and swimming in the Pacific!  

After the cruise Pete took a hopper flight back to Kauai and spent the remainder of his days in Hawaii there!  He snorkeled, and toured the Na Pali Coast.  He liked the Na Pali Coast so much, he saw it twice (once on the cruise and once by a 60 foot catamaran!)  Pete also visited Spouting Horn by Poipu Beach and went on a zip line tour, where he got to see where they filmed parts of Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones!  (Pete was really excited about that!)

All in all Pete had an amazing trip, it was everything he could have imagined and more!  Even though he didn’t want to leave the beautiful islands of Hawaii, he was ready to go home.  So Pete got back on the plane after spending 10 great days in warm tropical weather and headed back to the cold Wisconsin weather he knows and loves!  

Don’t forget to check back when Pete gets back from Vegas on Monday!

by Donald B. MacGowan

Mauna Loa looms over the Ka'u Desert, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Whether you visit the Big Island for a few days, a couple weeks or a few months, you want to make the most of your time in Paradise. With such a wide variety of natural and commercial attractions, it is natural for the visitor to get a little overwhelmed in the “Option Overload” and not be able to make a balanced and informed decision on what they want to do and how best to spend their time.

Warrior Footprints of the Ka'u Desert as photo grpahed in 2006, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Even choosing which beach you want to spend time on, or where you want to hike can be an exercise in confusion and conflicting advice.  Clearly, visitors to Hawaii could use help making quality decisions about how best to spend their time.

Frank Burgess hikes the Ka'u Desert Trail: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

Tour Guide Hawaii is excited and proud to announce the release of their new GPS/WiFi enabled App for iPhone and iPod that helps you navigate your trip to Hawaii with hours of informative, location-aware video and information. Although our video guide will lead you to dozens of unusual, untamed and unspoiled spots, let’s look at a hike you might have heard about, but might not be able to find from maps and guidebooks and would otherwise miss if you did not have Tour Guide Hawaii’s new App.

Ka’u Desert Trail/ Warrior Footprints, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The Ka'u Desert Trail as it winds away from the Parking Strip, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Just inside the National Park boundary, where the Hawai’i Belt Road enters Hawaii Volcanoes National Park from the West, is a small parking strip that many visitors, in a hurry to visit more well known attractions, might overlook. You should slow down and pay closer attention, because this small parking lot is the gateway to a host of wonders within the Mars-like landscape of the Ka’u Desert section of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The Ka'u Desert Trail is part of a vast system of intersecting trails within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

From about 4200 feet elevation down to sea level, the Ka’u Desert Trail wanders across this high, barren expanse of basalt and sand dunes formed of volcanic ash. Other trails intersect the Ka’u Desert Trail and travel from the Hawaii Belt Road east to Kilauea Crater as well as west to the intersection with the Ka’aha Trail then down the Hilina Pali to the coast. Seldom in a National Park is such unrelentingly inhospitable, but intensely spectacular, land made so accessible by trail.

Unconsolodated ash sifts across the Ka'u Desert, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

There is no water, there is no shade, there is no protection from the elements; the land and climate are as unforgiving as they are alluring. For details about hiking or backpacking in this spectacular, empty portion of the Park, contact the Backcountry Office at the Kilauea Visitors Center (808.985.6000). Do not venture from your car here without carrying water.

Ka'u Desert Footprints are preserved under a small ramada: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

But there is something more about this seeming unearthly spot that inspires people’s imagination and draws them to visit this lonely place. Less than a mile, scarcely a twenty minute walk, from the parking lot are the remains of footprints made by a party of doomed warriors more than 200 years ago.

The lunar-like surface of basalt and ash of the Ka'u Desert, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Kilauea’s eruptions are generally characterized by the leisurely, almost peaceful outpouring of lava and occasional more than mild earthquakes. However, it is not unknown for Madam Pele to erupt in a blast of fury, spreading ash and tephra for hundreds of miles. As recently as 1790 and again in 1924, such violent, steam-driven eruptions have occurred. These eruptions result from groundwater percolating downward through the earth to near the volcano’s magma chamber. The water becomes super-heated and, surging along existing structural weaknesses, makes new conduits to the surface, finally erupting in a roiling mass of superheated steam, ash, tephra and rocks. This type of eruption, and the ash they produce, are key to the mystery and eeriness of this site.

The same footprint as shown above, but photographed in 2009; note that erosion and vandalism have greatly degraded the integrity of the cast: Photo by Donnie MacGowan

The warrior footprints preserved here under a modern ramada are believed to have been formed in 1790. At this time, Kamehameha the Great was solidifying his military and political hold on the Island of Hawai’i, though not all his foes were vanquished. His cousin Keoua organized an army and, while Kamehameha was occupied elsewhere, he seized parts of Ka’u and Puna districts. Keoua sent an army overland to directly challenge Kamehameha…however, camping overnight at the volcano they were caught by the massive, explosive eruption. Fearing he had angered Pele, he organized his army into three columns for a hasty retreat from the falling ash. The first column seems to have emerged unscathed, but the second column went missing. When these warriors and their families were encountered by the third column, come searching for them, they were found dead on the ground, in close groups still clutching each other, overcome by the toxic volcanic fumes. The footprints seen here along Ka’u Desert Trail are from these doomed warriors and their families, made and preserved preserved in the the shifting ash dunes of the Ka’u Desert landscape. It is said that as many as 400 warriors, women and children died here.

Ka'u Desert Ohia Lehua Blossom: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

The people of Hawai’i Island accepted Pele’s judgment against the interloping Keoua and, although he continued to fight, he never came close to turning the tide of battle against his cousin, Kamehameha. As an ostensible peace offering to his cousin, Kamehameha invited Keoua to the ceremony sanctifying the newly erected Pu’u Kohola Heiau. However, when Keoua’s canoe approached the temple grounds, he was seized and immediately sacrificed to the War God, Kuka’ilimoku, thus becoming the first human sacrifice at the new luakini heiau and ending a vexing political problem for Kamehameha, all at one time.

The Ka'u Desert Trail as it reaches the Warrior Footprints: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

An emergency phone is available here; there are no other services.

The Warrior Footprints are preserved under this Ramada in the Ka'u Desert, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Frank Burgess

To see the new iPhone/iPod Touch App, please visit http://www.tourguidehawaii.com/iphone.html. The best of Tour Guide Hawaii’s free content about traveling to, and exploring, the Big island, can be found here. For more information on traveling to Hawaii in general and on touring the Big Island in particular, please also visit www.tourguidehawaii.com and www.tourguidehawaii.blogspot.com.

Copyright 2009 by Donald B. MacGowan. All rights reserved.

Ka'u Desert Ohia and Bee, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Photo by Donald B. MacGowan

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 28 October – 3 November 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Ebeko (Russia), Galeras (Colombia), Karangetang [Api Siau] (Indonesia), Manam (Papua New Guinea), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat).

Ongoing activity: Barren Island (India), Chaitén (Chile), Dukono (Indonesia), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Krakatau (Indonesia), Popocatépetl (Mexico), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), Shiveluch (Russia), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/ UNREST

Ebeko (Russia). A gas-and-steam plume rising 300 m above the crater and drifting 1-2 km NNE was seen on 26 October. No evidence of ash deposits was seen on the snow cover. Gas-and-steam plumes rose 250 m above the crater and drifted 2 km E on 28 October and NNE on 29 October. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Green.

Galeras (Colombia). INGEOMINAS raised the Alert Level to the second-highest level of Orange (‘eruption probable within days or weeks’) on 30 October. Degassing decreased and seismicity increased from 27 October, reflecting conditions seen prior to previous eruptions. Gas emissions were reported to have been low during the days preceding 3 November, and seismicity had decreased on that day.

Karangetang [Api Siau] (Indonesia). Based on a pilot observation and analyses of satellite imagery, Darwin VAAC reported an ash plume to 3 km a.s.l. and drifted 90-185 km W on 3 November.

Manam (Papua New Guinea). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes to 2.1 km a.s.l. that drifted 35-55 km NW during 1-2 November.

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). INGEOMINAS reported that on 28 October a pulse of tremor was followed by an ash plume that rose to 8.3 km a.s.l. Overflights on 30 October and 2 November revealed a high rate of lava dome growth compared to the previous observation on 23 October. An ash layer covered the W part of Pico Central. Continuous and intense degassing originated from areas where thermal anomalies were detected, and resulting gas plumes drifted NW. The volume estimate for the new lava dome was nearly 9 million
cubic metres. On 31 October an ash plume, observed through satellite imagery, pilot observations, and web camera views, was reported drifting 65 km S. During 31 October-2 November, thermal anomalies were detected on satellite imagery. On 2 November, a small plume seen on the web camera drifted SE. Gas plumes, occasionally accompanied by ash plumes, drifted 35 km SE. On 3 November INGEOMINAS reported that a pulse of tremor was followed by an ash plume that rose to 11.3 km a.s.l. and drifted SW, and ashfall was reported in communities downwind. Another ash plume rose to below 6.7 km a.s.l. and drifted E. Collapses from the W side of the dome generating small pyroclastic flows and incandescence were observed from Mosoco (20 km SSW).

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 23-30 October seismic activity was at a slightly lower level that the previous week. Numerous pyroclastic flows occurred in most of the major drainage valleys and rockfalls were concentrated in the S. Heavy rainfall caused lahars in the Belham Valley to the W. On 28 October two pyroclastic flows traveled 2 km W down Gages Valley. On 29
October a 40-m-high spine was seen protruding from the summit. Changes in lava-dome morphology seen on 30 October, and occurrences of pyroclastic flows traveling NE, indicated that growth was concentrated in the central part of the lava dome. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Barren Island (India). Darwin VAAC reported an ash plume rose to 1.8 km a.s.l. and drifted about 55-75 km W on 1 November.

Chaitén (Chile). Buenos Aires VAAC reported a diffuse ash plume possibly mixed with steam and gas rose from the lava dome complex and drifted SSE on 30 October. On 1 November a plume drifted 20 km W.

Dukono (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to 1.5 km a.s.l. and drifted 35-110 km NE and N on 31 October.

Karymsky (Russia). Seismic activity was above background levels during 23-27 and 30 October, a possible indication that ash plumes rose to an altitude of 3.7 km a.s.l. No seismic data was available on 22 and 28 October. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed an ash plume that drifted 120 km E on 23 October, and a thermal anomaly during 23-26 and 29 October. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 21-27 October lava flowed SE from underneath the Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system to reach the Waikupanaha ocean entry. Lava began entering the ocean at a second location 700 m to the W on 31 October. Thermal anomalies detected in satellite images and visual observations revealed active surface lava flows. Breakout lava flows were located inland of the Waikpuanaha entry and also
immediately W of the County Public Viewing trail. Intermittent incandescence was seen from the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor and an East wall vent. The Halema’uma’u crater vent continued to produce a diffuse white plume that drifted SW. Incandescence originated from occasionally spattering holes from a surface inside the vent cavity. On 3 November a collapse of the surface revealed a circulating and spattering lava pond below. Preliminary measurements indicated that the sulphur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated: 800 tonnes/day was measured on 30 October (2003-2007 average rate = 140 tonnes/day).

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 23-30 October seismic activity was above background levels. Tremor increased on 26 October. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 200 m above the crater and fumarolic activity was occasionally noted. Satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly. The Level of Concern
Color Code remained at Orange.

Krakatau (Indonesia). Between August and 29 October seismicity and the occurrence of eruption plumes decreased. The Alert Level was lowered to 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Popocatépetl (Mexico). A small explosive event on 29 October produced an ash plume that rose to 6.4 km a.s.l.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). During 28-29 October Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes from Tavurvur cone rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted 35-45 km N, E, and SE.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that during 28 October-3 November explosions produced plumes to 1.2-2.7 km a.s.l. Some plumes drifted W, SW, S, SE, and NE.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 23-30 October seismic activity was above background levels, possibly indicating ash plumes to 3.7 km a.s.l. On 29 October ash plumes possibly rose to 6.9 km a.s.l. Fumarolic activity was occasionally seen. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large thermal anomaly over the lava dome during 22-27 October and an ash plume that drifted 24 km NE on 26 October. Tokyo VAAC reported an eruption on 30 October that produced a plume to 7 km a.s.l. Later that day a possible eruption plume rose to 6.1 km a.s.l. An eruption on 1 November produced a plume to 4.9 km a.s.l.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported explosions on 30 October and 2 November, without details of possible resulting emissions.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 28 October to 3 November 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

Fiery lava cascades into the Pacific Ocean. Uploaded by ballslist.com.

You’ll find Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawaii, home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes (Kilauea) and its most massive one (Mauna Loa). The Park spreads out over 520 sq. mi. of land, and goes from sea level all the way up to the rim of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet.

The Park offers vistas unavailable anywhere else in the country. You can see flaming lava break off a cliff and fall into the Pacific Ocean. You can walk right up to slow moving floes of lava. You can – well, shoot, let’s see if these pictures don’t say all that needs to be said about this otherworldly location:

Uploaded by hugewallpaper.com.

Uploaded by vacationtravelclub.com.

Uploaded to Flickr by Madison 76

Uploaded by campingtourist.com.

Uploaded by LivingWilderness.com.

Uploaded by rainforestandreef.org.

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 21-27 October 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Chaitén (Chile), Ebeko (Russia), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Mayon (Philippines), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Reventador (Ecuador), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat).

Ongoing activity: Batu Tara (Indonesia), Colima (Mexico), Dukono (Indonesia), Fuego (Guatemala), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Pacaya (Guatemala), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), Santa María (Guatemala), Shiveluch (Russia).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/ UNREST

Chaitén (Chile). The lava-dome complex continued to grow during 1-15 October. On clear days steam from the E part of the complex and ash-and-steam plumes from the central part were observed. Small emissions originated from numerous areas. An explosion on 14 October produced a dense ash cloud that drifted W, and Buenos Aires VAAC reported continuous emissions on 21 October. Plumes rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted SSE. The alert level remaind at Red.

Ebeko (Russia). A possible eruption plume was reported by Tokyo VAAC to have risen to 8.8 km a.s.l. and drifted E. Emissions continued the next day.

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 16-23 October seismic activity was above background levels and satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly. Strombolian activity ejected tephra 500 m above the crater and fumarolic plumes were noted during 16 and 18-22 October. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Mayon (Philippines). On 28 October a minor ash explosion produced a brownish ash plume that rose 600 m above the crater and drifted NE. The Alert Level remained at 2.

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). A possible eruption was reported by Washington VAAC on 20 October. An ash plume was seen on satellite imagery drifting 45 km S and increased seismicity was reported. Another ash cloud was seen on satellite imagery drifting S later that day. On 21 October continuous gas emissions rose and pulses of ash emissions produced plumes that drifted E. Observations during an overflight on 23 October revealed that gas-and-ash emissions originated from two locations. The area of greater discharge was between Pico Central and the lava dome, while fewer emissions came from the fissure that opened in April 2007, NE of Pico Central. Lava-dome growth was concentrated on the N end of the lava dome, an area also exhibiting a thermal anomaly detected with a thermal imaging camera. Ashfall and sulfur odors were reported in several inhabited areas on 23 and 24 October. Washington VAAC reported that on 24 October an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to 9.1 km a.s.l. and drifted WSW. During 25-26 October, thermal anomalies were seen on satellite imagery. A plume drifted WSW on 25 October and a gas-and-ash plume drifted 90 km NW and SW on 26 October. The Alert Level remained at Orange (II).

Reventador (Ecuador). Steam-and-gas plumes with little to no ash content rose 2-4 km above the crater and drifted NW, W, and S on 21 October, and an explosion that day ejected incandescent material from the crater, and blocks rolled down the flanks. A few explosions on 22 October generated ash-and-steam plumes with little to no ash content that rose 4 km and drifted NW, E, and SE. Overflight observations revealed a small lava flow on the N flank and a larger flow with four branches on the S flank. Some of the base of the lava dome had been removed, and small spines were present, especially on the S side of the dome. Thermal images revealed that material in the crater was 400 degrees Celsius and the lava-flow fronts were 250 degrees Celsius. Roaring noises were heard on 25 October.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). During 16-25 October activity at the lava dome was at a high level. The new lava dome on the W side of the summit reported on 9 October continued to grow, and was considerably higher than the older lava dome to the E. Seismicity was high and cycles of low-level tremor occurred at regular intervals. Several pyroclastic flows descended S along the White River to the sea, and small pyroclastic flows traveled NE down Tuitts Ghaut and W down Gages valley. Rockfalls occurred on the S and SE flanks of the lava dome. Multiple ashfalls were reported in inhabited areas, and lahars traveled NW down the Belham valley. During 23-25 October, seismicity decreased and ash plumes generated by pyroclastic flows drifted W. The Hazard Level remained at 3.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Batu Tara (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes drifting 65 km W and NW at 2.1 km a.s.l. on 27 October.

Colima (Mexico). On 22 October a grey plume rose to 4 km a.s.l. and drifted SW. On 23 October white plumes drifted NE and N, one at 4.2 km a.s.l.

Dukono (Indonesia). Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes to 2.1-2.4 km a.s.l. and drifting 45-95 km NE and E during 22-23 and 26-27 October.

Fuego (Guatemala). Washington VAAC reported an apparent ash plume on 20 October drifting SSW. Multiple ash emissions on 21 October produced an ash cloud that drifted 55 km S, and emissions were also reported on the next day. On 26 October, a diffuse gas-and-ash plume drifted W, and explosions produced plumes that rose to 4.4-4.8 km a.s.l. and drifted 10 km S and SW. Ash fell downwind, rumbling and degassing sounds were reported, and avalanches of blocks descended the flanks. On 27 October, a few ash clouds seen on satellite imagery drifted 90 km NW.

Karymsky (Russia). Seismic activity was above background levels during 16-23 October and possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to 3.9 km a.s.l. Tokyo VAAC reported that eruptions during 24-25 October produced plumes that rose to 3.4-3.7 km a.s.l. Ash was not identified on satellite imagery. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 21-27 October lava flowed SE from underneath Kilauea’s Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system, reaching the Waikupanaha ocean entry on most days. Thermal anomalies detected in satellite images and visual observations revealed active surface lava flows. For a few days an active lava flow advanced on the coastal plain, burning vegetation and pavement along the former Kalapana access road. Intermittent incandescence was seen from the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor and an East wall vent.

Pacaya (Guatemala). On 23 and 26 October white and blue plumes from MacKenney cone rose 50-150 m and drifted W and SW. Multiple lava flows on the S flank traveled 75-350 m SSW.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). During 16-22 October diffuse white plumes and grey ash plumes rose from Tavurvur cone. Ash plumes rose 700 m above the crater. Ashfall was reported to the NW.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions during 21-22, 24-25, and 27-28 October produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-2.4 km a.s.l. Some plumes drifted W, SW, S, and SE.

Santa María (Guatemala). Washington VAAC reported multiple ash plumes from the Santiaguito lava dome complex that drifted less than 20 km SW on 22 October. Explosions on 23 and 26 October produced ash plumes that rose above Caliente dome to 3-3.3 km a.s.l. which drifted W and SE and caused ashfall downwind. Avalanches descended the SW flank of the dome. Degassing sounds resembling aircraft engines were heard.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 16-23 October seismic activity was above background levels and possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to 4.5 km a.s.l. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large thermal anomaly over the lava dome. Multiple hot avalanches were observed descending the lava dome. Deposits on the SE flank from a small pyroclastic flow were noted. Fumarolic plumes rose to 2.8-5 km a.s.l. during 16, 18-20 and 22 October. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 21-27 October 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

A lava flow crossed the former Kalapana road around 1:45 am on 23rd October, 2009, at Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii. The lava flow stopped moving by afternoon, but the road continued to burn, igniting trees in the surrounding kipuka. The lava flows remained active Saturday afternoon and were advancing in a southeast direction from the road in the kipuka between the 1989 Quarry flow, where a Public Viewing Area and trail was established.
More on Kilauea Volcano…

Tour Guide Hawaii is excited and proud to announce the launch of their incredible, affordable, fabulous new Hawaii Travel iPhone/iPod Touch App

Navigate to all the most popular visitor destinations, the most interesting attractions, the most romantic and secluded beaches; effortlessly find hikes, snorkel spots, historical and cultural landmarks, shopping and dining.  And of course, our new App includes directions to, and rating of, all the public restrooms! Learn all about it, here. In addition to real GPS navigation, this app also allows you to navigate using Google Maps or, if no internet or phone service available, with on-board maps and driving directions! Our App is crammed full of entertaining and informative video presentations about how and where to snorkel, the best trails and beaches, what to pack to bring to Hawaii, cultural orientation and language tips!

Using the Tour Guide Hawaii iPhone/iPod Touch App will save you time, save you money and allow you to see and do more with your Hawaii vacation; this quick video tells you how.

Interested in seeing what kind of information our App contains?  In celebration of the release of our new App, we proudly present this list of blogs and web articles on Hawaii Travel, with URLs, of the unique and comprehensive Tour Guide Hawaii content.  Enjoy this free information at your leisure, and order your App from iTunes, today!

Tour Guide Hawaii proudly presents the best, the most interesting, the most comprehensive material on Hawaii travel ever gathered in one place!

Best About Planning Your Hawaii Trip

What To Pack And Take To Hawaii: What You Need, What You Want, What You Can Leave Out Of Your Luggage: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/07/13/what-to-pack-and-take-to-hawaii-what-you-need-what-you-want-what-you-can-leave-out-of-your-luggage/

Getting To Hawaii, Getting Around Hawaii, Getting the Most From Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/06/04/getting-to-and-getting-around-the-big-island-of-hawaii/

Frank’s Guide to Pronouncing Hawaiian Words: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/07/01/franks-guide-to-pronouncing-the-hawaiian-langauge/

Best Beaches on Hawaii

A Quick Guide to The Best Beaches of Hawaii Island: Sun, Surf, Solitude: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/06/25/the-top-beaches-of-hawaii-island/

The Best Beaches in Hawaii: Part 1, The Main Kohala Coast: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/03/the-best-beaches-in-hawaii-part-1-the-main-kohala-coast/

The Best Beaches in Hawaii: Part 2, The Kona and South Kohala Coasts: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/05/the-best-beaches-in-hawaii-part-2-the-kona-and-south-kohala-coasts/

Best Beaches in Hawaii: Part 3, Unusual, Uncrowded and Untamed Beaches of South Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/07/best-beaches-in-hawaii-part-3-unusual-uncrowded-and-untamed-beaches-of-south-hawaii/

Best Beaches in Hawaii: Part 4, Wilderness Beaches of the Big Island: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/09/best-beaches-in-hawaii-part-4-wilderness-beaches-of-the-big-island/

Best Beaches in Hawaii Part 5–Best Beaches for Snorkeling: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/best-beaches-in-hawaii-part-5-best-beaches-for-snorkeling/

Best Scenic Drives on Hawaii

My Favorite Scenic Drive: Hawaii’s Wild and Scenic Saddle Road!: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/02/my-favorite-scenic-drive-hawaiis-wild-and-scenic-saddle-road/

Big Island Whirlwind Road Trip: I have to see the whole Big Island all in one day!http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/15/big-island-whirlwind-road-trip-i-have-to-see-the-whole-big-island-all-in-one-day/

Kona Heritage Corridor Scenic Drive: An Exceptional Day Trip Exploration of Historical, Lovely, Up-Country Kona!:http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/06/14/kona-heritage-corridor-scenic-drive-an-exceptional-day-trip-exploration-of-historical-lovely-up-country-kona/

Best Scenic Drives on Hawaii #1: The Saddle Road…Kona to the Summit of Mauna Kea, Kaumana Cave and Hilo:http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/17/best-scenic-drives-on-hawaii-1-the-saddle-road-kona-to-the-summit-of-mauna-kea-kaumana-cave-and-hilo/

Best Scenic Drives on Hawaii #2: North Kona and Kohala, Ancient History, Sumptuous Beaches: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/21/best-scenic-drives-on-hawaii-2-north-kona-and-kohala-ancient-history-sumptuous-beaches/

Best Scenic Drives on Hawaii #3: Kona to Hamakua and Hilo: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/23/best-scenic-drives-on-hawaii-3-kona-to-hamakua-and-hilo/

Best Scenic Drives in Hawaii #4: Kona Coast to South Point and Ka’u http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/26/best-scenic-drives-in-hawaii-4-kona-coast-to-south-point-and-kau/

Best Scenic Drives in Hawaii #5: Kailua Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Puna and Lava Viewing: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/30/best-scenic-drives-in-hawaii-5-kailua-kona-to-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park-puna-and-lava-viewing/

New iPhone/iPod Touch App Helps you Explore Hawaii’s Hidden, Romantic and Mysterious Places: The South Coast of Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/18/new-iphoneipod-touch-app-helps-you-explore-hawaiis-hidden-romantic-and-mysterious-places-the-south-coast-of-hawaii/

Road Trip Through Keauhou Historic District, Big Island, Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2008/07/10/wwwtourguidehawaicom-presents-a-road-trip-through-keauhou-historic-district-big-island-hawaii/

Best About Hiking:

The Best Short Hikes on Hawaii Island: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/06/29/the-best-short-hikes-on-hawaii-island/

The Adventure and Romance of Hiking To Kilauea Volcano’s Active Lava Flows: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2008/07/20/tour-guide-hawaii-presents-the-adventure-and-romance-of-hiking-to-kilauea-volcanos-active-lava-flows/

Exploring the Summit Hikes of Mauna Kea: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/23/exploring-the-summit-hikes-of-mauna-kea-hawaii/

South Point’s Justly Famous Green Sand Beach Hike, Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/29/south-points-justly-famous-green-sand-beach-hike-papakolea-bay-and-mahana-beach-hawaii/

Hiking to Captain Cook Monument on the Big Island of Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/16/hiking-to-captain-cook-monument-on-the-kona-coast-of-hawaii/

Hiking Hawaii’s Magnificent Waipi’o Valley: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/18/hiking-hawaiis-magnificent-waipio-valley/

Hiking Down Into Pololu Valley, Big Island of Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/20/hiking-down-into-pololu-valley-big-island-of-hawaii/

Kiholo Bay Beach Hike: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/21/kiholo-bay-beach-hike/

Hiking to Honomalino Bay, Big Island, Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/19/hiking-to-honomalino-bay-big-island-hawaii/

Historic Kailua Kona Town on the Big Island of Hawaii: A Walking Tour: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/03/historic-kailua-kona-town-on-the-big-island-of-hawaii-a-walking-tour/

Hiking and Camping at Hawaii’s Last Wilderness Beach: La’amaomao the Wind God and Makalawena Beach: Advice: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/02/21/hiking-and-camping-at-hawaiis-last-wilderness-beach-laamaomao-the-wind-god-and-makalawena-beach/

Driving and Hiking to the Summit of Mauna Kea, Big Island of Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/07/26/advice-driving-and-hiking-to-the-summit-of-mauna-kea-big-island-of-hawaii/

Hidden Secrets of Hawaii: The Golden Ponds of Ke-awa-iki: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/04/21/hidden-secrets-of-hawaii-the-golden-ponds-of-ke-awa-iki/

Hiking at Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/01/07/hiking-at-kilauea-volcano-on-the-big-island-of-hawaii/

Hiking the Kilauea Iki Trail: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/24/hiking-the-kilauea-iki-trail-new-iphoneipod-touch-app-helps-you-find-all-the-unique-secluded-unusual-destinations-on-hawaii/

Best About Snorkeling

The Best Snorkeling Spots on Hawaii Island: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/06/27/the-best-snorkeling-spots-on-hawaii-island/

Hawaii Island Snorkeling Tips, Part I: Gear: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/16/hawaii-island-snorkeling-tips-part-i-gear-2/

Hawaii Island Snorkeling Tips, Part II: Technique : http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/18/hawaii-island-snorkeling-tips-part-ii-technique-2/

Hawaii Island Snorkeling Tips, Part III: Protecting the Reef and Reef Animals: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/20/hawaii-island-snorkeling-tips-part-iii-reef-etiquette-2/

Hawaii Island Snorkeling Tips, Part IV: Snorkeling Safety: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/26/hawaii-island-snorkeling-tips-part-iv-snorkeling-safety-2/

Hawaii Island Snorkeling Tips, Part V: Best Snorkeling Beaches of the Big Island: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/28/hawaii-island-snorkeling-tips-part-v-best-snorkeling-beaches-of-the-big-island-2/

Hawaii Island Snorkeling Tips Part VI: Wilderness Beaches of the Big Island!: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/30/hawaii-island-snorkeling-tips-part-vi-wilderness-beaches-of-the-big-islanda/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #1: Introduction: Kona Coast: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/26/franks-big-island-travel-hints-1-north-kona-and-kohala-ancient-history-sumptuous-beaches/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #2: Kona South to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hilo:http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/27/franks-big-island-travel-hints-2-kona-coast-south-of-honaunau-to-kau/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints # 3: Kona North to Waikoloa and the Kohala Coast: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/1794/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #4: Waikoloa to Pololu Valley; http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/01/franks-big-island-travel-hints-4-waikoloa-to-pololu-valley-4/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #5: Hawi to Kona via the Kohala Mountain road, Waimea and Waikoloa: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/03/franks-big-island-travel-hints-5-hawi-to-kona-via-kohala-mountain-road-waimea-and-waikoloa-4/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #6: Waimea and the Hamakua Coast: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/04/franks-big-island-travel-hints-6-waimea-and-the-hamakua-coast-4/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints # 7: Around Hilo: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/06/franks-big-island-travel-hints-7-hilo-side-akaka-falls-to-panaewa-rainforest-zoo/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #8: Mysterious Puna!: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/08/franks-big-island-travel-hints-8-mysterious-puna/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #9: Made for Adventure: The Jungles, Volcanoes, Hot Springs and Tidepools of Puna!: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/09/franks-hawaii-travel-hints-9-made-for-adventure-the-jungles-volcanoes-hot-springs-and-tidepools-of-puna/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #10: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/11/franks-big-island-travel-hints-10-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park/

Frank’s Travel Hints # 11: Exploring Deeper Into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island, Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/13/franks-big-island-travel-hints-11-exploring-deeper-into-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park-big-island-hawaii/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #12: More fun in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island, Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/15/franks-big-island-travel-hints-12-more-fun-in-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park-big-island-hawaii-4/

Frank’s Big Island Travel Hints #13: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Chain of Craters Road: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/17/franks-big-island-travel-hints-13-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park-chain-of-craters-road/

Best Interesting Stories and General Reading about Hawaii

The Beautiful, Enigmatic and Cryptic Petroglyphs of Hawaii Island: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/04/23/the-beautiful-enigmatic-and-cryptic-petroglyphs-of-hawaii-island/

Hawaii’s Amazing Lava Fossils: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/24/hawaiis-amazing-lava-fossils/

The Sugar Industry in Hawaii: Kona Sugar Company and West Hawai’i Railway Company: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/04/25/the-sugar-industry-in-hawaii-kona-sugar-company-and-west-hawai%E2%80%99i-railway-company/

Captain Cook’s Legacy: Exploring the History and Waters of Kealakekua Bay: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/04/07/949/

Kilauea’s Eruption Just Keeps Getting More Fantastic!: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2008/07/31/wwwtourguidehawaiicom-presents-new-video-of-kilauea-volcano-erupting/

Kalapana, Hawaii: From the Fires of Hades to the Eden of Rebirth: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/01/17/kalapana-hawaii-from-the-fires-of-hades-to-the-eden-of-rebirth/

Pu’u Loa Petroglyph Field, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/03/17/823/

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles: Honu of the Big Island: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/09/19/hawaiis-magnificent-honu-the-endangered-hawaiian-green-sea-turtle/

Heartbreak of the Gods: Kuamo’o Battle Field and Lekeleke Graveyard: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/04/29/heartbreak-of-the-gods-kuamoo-batlle-field-and-lekeleke-graveyard-big-island-of-hawaii/

A Brief History of Ranching in Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/24/rodeo-to-rock-and-roll-a-brief-history-of-ranching-in-hawaii/

Kona’s Fascinating History: Ahu’ena Heiau at Kamakahonu Beach: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/11/04/konas-fascinating-history-ahuena-heiau-at-kamakahonu-beach/

Kona’s Fascinating History: Moku’aikaua Church–the First Christian Church in Hawaii: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/11/02/konas-fscinating-history-mokuaikawa-the-first-christian-church-in-hawaii/

Kona’s Fascinating History: Hulihe’e Palace: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/11/01/konas-fscinating-history-hulihee-palace/

Kona’s Fascinating History: Kamakahonu Rock, the Kailua Pier and Seawall: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/30/konas-fascinating-history-kamakahonu-rock-the-kailua-pier-and-seawall/

Rising From The Past: The Rebirth of Hapaiali’i Heiau, a Hawaiian Temple for Honoring Royalty: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/05/01/1118/

The Hawaiian Snow Goddess Poliahu and the Summit of Mauna Kea…: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/02/05/the-hawaiian-snow-goddess-poliahu-and-the-summit-of-mauna-kea/

Mo’okini Heiau: Warrior Kings and Human Sacrifice on Hawai’i: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/01/03/mookini-heiau-warrior-kings-and-human-sacrifice-on-hawaii-2/

The Call of Aloha…:http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/08/13/the-call-of-aloha/

Why I love Hawaii…: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/01/13/why-i-love-hawaii/

Hilo Askance: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/10/10/hilo-askance/

Conjuring Visions of Paradise: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/02/19/conjuring-visions-of-paradise/

Volcano Art Center—A Kipuka of Creativity on the Rim of Madam Pele’s Home: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/06/01/volcano-art-center-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park/

Jagger Museum, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/04/01/jagger-museum-hawaii-volcanoes-national-rark/

]]> http://volcanism.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/siusgs-weekly-volcanic-activity-report-14-20-october-2009/ Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:32:06 +0000 admin http://volcanism.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/siusgs-weekly-volcanic-activity-report-14-20-october-2009/

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 14-20 October 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Chaitén (Chile), Ebeko (Russia), Gaua (Vanuatu), Kaba (Indonesia), Kizimen (Russia), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Nevado del Huila (Colombia), Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion), Reventador (Ecuador), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat).

Ongoing activity: Bagana (Papua New Guinea), Batu Tara (Indonesia), Cleveland (Alaska, USA), Dukono (Indonesia), Karymsky (Russia), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Sakura-jima (Japan), Sangay (Ecuador), Shishaldin (Alaska, USA), Shiveluch (Russia).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Chaitén (Chile). Based on web camera views and analyses of satellite imagery, the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that on 14 October an ash plume from Chaitén’s lava-dome complex rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 150 km NNE. A diffuse plume was seen the next day drifting 15 km SW at the same altitude as the previous day. During 15-16 October, a thermal anomaly was seen. On 18 October, a possible plume drifted 50 km SE at an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. Diffuse ash plumes possibly mixed with steam and gas rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. on 20 October and drifted NE and SE.

Ebeko (Russia). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 15 October a possible eruption plume from Ebeko rose to an altitude of 10.7 km (35,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE.

Gaua (Vanuatu). On 13 October, Vanuatu Geohazards Observatory confirmed that Gaua’s Mount Garat was erupting based on fieldwork done by scientists during 3-7 October. Seismic records showed multiple explosions, and a gas flux measurement of 3,000 metric tons of sulfur dioxide was detected on 3 October. The Alert Level was raised to 2 (on a scale of 0-5).

Kaba (Indonesia). On 20 October, CVGHM reported that seismic activity from Kaba increased in August and remained elevated in September and October. Inflation was also detected. When weather permitted, diffuse white plumes were seen rising 25-50 m above the crater rim and drifting E. Based on the deformation and increased seismicity, CVGHN raised the Alert Level to 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Kizimen (Russia). KVERT reported that seismicity from Kizimen was above background levels during 8-11 October and at background levels during 12-16 October. A weak thermal anomaly was seen at the volcano in satellite imagery on 9 October. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Yellow.

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). KVERT reported that during 9-16 October seismic activity from Kliuchevskoi was above background levels and weak tremor was detected. Satellite imagery revealed a daily thermal anomaly at the volcano. On 11 October, Strombolian activity ejected tephra 200 m above the crater. Fumarolic plumes containing small amounts of ash rose to an altitude of 5.7 km (19,700 ft) a.s.l. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Nevado del Huila (Colombia). Based on web camera views, INGEOMINAS reported that on 16 October an ash plume from Nevado del Huila rose 1 km and drifted E. Ashfall and sulfur odors were reported in several surrounding areas. Later that day, seismicity increased, prompting INGEOMINAS to raise the Alert Level to II (Orange; “probable eruption in term of days or weeks”).

Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion). On 14 October, OVPDLF reported a seismic crisis from Piton de la Fournaise, with seismicity indicating deformation on the N side of Dolomieu crater and rockfalls within the crater. During 15-17 October,
deformation and rockfalls continued to be detected. On 18 October, another seismic crisis was noted along with deformation on the N and S sides of Dolomieu crater. Aerial observations on 19 October revealed a small new fumarole in the crater. Changes in the chemical composition of the gases were also noted. A greater number and duration of rockfalls than in previous days was detected on 20 October.

Reventador (Ecuador). The IG reported that field observations of Reventador on 16 and 17 September confirmed the presence of a lava flow on the S flank of the cone. Gas and steam emissions were noted, as was growth of the lava dome. Thermal anomalies over the crater area were detected in satellite imagery on 6, 11, and 13 October. On 14 October, seismicity increased and harmonic tremor was detected. A seismic station on the NE flank of the cone detected rockfalls. Several people living in the area reported roaring noises and observed slight incandescence from the crater during the previous few nights. During an overflight on 16 October, scientists saw the lava dome and a lava flow on the N flank. Bluish gases were emitted. According to a thermal camera, the incandescent parts in the crater were about 300 degrees Celsius. Other observers heard roaring noises and sounds resembling “cannon shots.” Incandescent blocks were ejected from the crater, and steam and gases rose 100 m and drifted SW. Incandescent material was seen on the S flank. On 17 October, incandescence on the S flank was seen and noises similar the previous day were again heard. A small gray plume was seen the next day. On 19 October, thermal anomalies were again detected on satellite imagery. During an overflight, blue gas plumes were seen. The lava flow on the S flank occupied a large area and was divided into two branches.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). MVO reported that during 9-16 October activity from the Soufrière Hills lava dome was at a high level; a new lava dome first reported on 9 October continued to grow. Over 1,200 rockfalls were detected by the seismic network. Pyroclastic flows traveled down every major drainage valley except the Tar River valley to the E. Brief views of the lava dome revealed that the new lava dome summit was about 60 m above the old dome structure. Heavy rainfall caused a lahar in the Belham Valley to the NW on 14 October. On 16 October, several large pyroclastic flows descended the White River to the S and reached the sea. Moderate-sized pyroclastic flows traveled 3 km NE down Tuitts Ghaut and White Bottom Ghaut, and a few smaller pyroclastic flows descended Tyers Ghaut to the N. Extensive ash clouds rose to an altitude of km (20,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted WNW, resulting in minor ashfall in inhabited areas. During 18-19 October, rockfalls and small pyroclastic flows continued to be detected.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Bagana (Papua New Guinea). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 15 October an ash plume from Bagana rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 55 km SW.

Batu Tara (Indonesia). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 14-16 October ash plumes from Batu Tara were seen drifting 25-185 km W and N at an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l.

Cleveland (Alaska, USA). On 19 October, AVO reported that no eruptive activity from Cleveland had been observed since the brief eruption on 2 October. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level were lowered to Unassigned. Cleveland is not monitored by a real-time seismic network, thus the levels “Green” or “Normal” do not apply because background activity is not defined.

Dukono (Indonesia). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 15 October an ash plume from Dukono rose to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 45 km NW.

Karymsky (Russia). KVERT reported that seismic activity at Karymsky was elevated above background levels during 9-16 October and possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,100 ft) a.s.l. On 12 October, volcanologists doing fieldwork saw an ash plume rise to an altitude of 3.5 km (11,500 ft) a.s.l. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange. Based on information from KEMSD, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 20 October eruptions produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 3-3.7 km (10,000-12,000 ft) a.s.l. Ash was not identified on satellite imagery.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 14-20 October, HVO reported that lava flowed SE from underneath Kilauea’s Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex through a lava tube system, reaching the Waikupanaha ocean entry. Thermal anomalies detected in satellite images and visual observations revealed active surface lava flows on top and at the base of the pali. Intermittent incandescence was seen from the Pu’u ‘O’o crater floor and an East wall vent. The vent in Halema’uma’u crater continued to produce a diffuse white plume that drifted SW. Fresh Pele’s Hair was collected near the summit on 16 October. Incandescence originated from sources inside the vent cavity; on 18 October a lava pond surface was seen, but then disappeared. Preliminary measurements indicated that the sulfur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated; 690-940 tonnes per day was measured during 16-18 October. The 2003-2007 average rate was 140 tonnes per day.

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 15, 18, and 20 October ash plumes from Rabaul caldera’s Tavurvur cone rose to altitudes of 2.7-3 km (9,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 25-85 km NW, W, and NE.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Sakura-jima during 13-20 October produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.4 km (6,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW, S, SE, and E. On 15 October, a pilot reported that an ash plume rose to an
altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE.

Sangay (Ecuador). Based on analyses of satellite imagery, the Washington VAAC reported that on 15 October a small plume from Sangay drifted 15 km SW.

Shishaldin (Alaska, USA). On 19 October, AVO reported that recent clear satellite views of Shishaldin showed no activity; the last thermal anomaly was detected on 16 August. Seismicity was variable, but within background levels. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Green and the Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Normal.

Shiveluch (Russia). KVERT reported that during 9-16 October seismic activity from Shiveluch was above background levels and possibly indicated that ash plumes rose to an altitude of 4.5 km (14,800 ft) a.s.l. Analyses of satellite imagery revealed a large thermal anomaly over the lava dome during 8-13 and 15 October. Fumarolic plumes containing small amounts of ash rose to an altitude of 3.5 km (11,500 ft) a.s.l. during 11-13 October. According to video camera data and visual observations, multiple hot avalanches traveled down the lava dome on 12, 13, and 14 October, and deposits from a small pyroclastic flow on the SE flank were noted. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 14-20 October 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

Click on the map for a larger version (1280 x 898 pixels).

The Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for 7-13 October 2009 is available on the Global Volcanism Program website. The following is a summary and not a substitute for the full report.

• The current report: Weekly Volcanic Activity Report.
• Previous reports: Weekly Reports Archive.
• The SI/USGS map of volcanoes discussed this week.

New activity/unrest: Karymsky (Russia), Kizimen (Russia), Kliuchevskoi (Russia), Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion), Sakura-jima (Japan), Shiveluch (Russia), Soufrière Hills (Montserrat).

Ongoing activity: Arenal (Costa Rica), Bagana (Papua New Guinea), Batu Tara (Indonesia), Dukono (Indonesia), Fuego (Guatemala), Kilauea (Hawaii, USA), Rabaul (Papua New Guinea), Suwanose-jima (Japan).

Note: a.s.l. = ‘above sea level’.

NEW ACTIVITY/UNREST

Karymsky (Russia). During 2-9 October seismic activity was above background levels, and weak ash explosions were possibly indicated. An ash plume that rose to 3.5 km a.s.l. and drifted SSE was seen on 7 October, and on 9 October an eruption produced a plume that rose to 3 km a.s.l.

Kizimen (Russia). Seismicity began to increase in October, especially on the 9th, and a weak thermal anomaly was detected on 17 and 21 September.

Kliuchevskoi (Russia). During 2-9 October seismic activity was above background levels, with many earthquakes and weak tremor being detected. A weak thermal anomaly was detected over the volcano. Strombolian eruptions ejected tephra 70-100 m above the crater on 2-3 October and fumarolic activity was observed, and on 7 October a fumarolic plume with some ash rose to 5.7 km a.s.l.

Piton de la Fournaise (Réunion). Increased seismicity was reported during 5-6 October, and there was a ’seismic crisis’ on 7 October. Earthquakes were focused between Bory and Dolomieu craters with deformation detected on the N side of Dolomieu. During 8-13 October seismicity remained above background levels.

Sakura-jima (Japan). Explosions during 7-12 October produced plumes that rose to 1.2-2.7 km a.s.l. and drifted W, SW, S, and SE, and an explosion was detected on 13 October.

Shiveluch (Russia). During 2-9 October seismic activity was above background levels and satellite imagery revealed a large daily thermal anomaly over the lava dome. Fumarolic plumes with small amounts of ash were observed rising to 4 km a.s.l. during 1-3 October. Interpretations of seismic data indicated that ash plumes possibly rose to 6.8 km a.s.l. on 6 October and 4.5 km a.s.l. on other days.

Soufrière Hills (Montserrat). The ash-venting events which begun on 4 October ceased in the early hours of 7 October. A total of thirteen events was recorded, the last three associated with small pyroclastic flows that descended to the NNW. On 7-8 October a small area of incandescence from the N flank of the lava dome was observed. Aerial observations on 9 October revealed that a new lava dome was growing on the S side of the volcano, above the White River valley. Rockfalls and pyroclastic flows occurred during 9-13 October, producing ashfall to the NW on 9-10 October. Pyroclastic flows, some extending up to 2 km from the lava dome, descended to the NNW on 11 and 13 October. Pyroclastic flows occasionally travelled down the White River valley and associated ash clouds moved WNW. On 13 October, seismicity related to small pyroclastic flows traveling NW gradually increased and culminated with the largest event since 4 October, producing a 2 km pyroclastic flow generated by a small collapse of the lava dome. The resulting ash plume rose to 6.1 km a.s.l.

ONGOING ACTIVITY

Arenal (Costa Rica). During September Crater C at Arenal produced gas emissions, sporadic Strombolian eruptions, and occasional avalanches descending the W flank. Acid rain and small amounts of ejected pyroclastic material affected the NE and SE flanks and avalanches from lava-flow fronts descended the SW flanks. Crater D produced only fumarolic activity.

Bagana (Papua New Guinea). On 9 October an ash plume rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifting 45 km SW.

Batu Tara (Indonesia). On 6 October an ash plume was observed drifting 65 km W at 2.4 km a.s.l.

Dukono (Indonesia). On 7 October an ash plume rose to 3 km a.s.l. and drifted 74 km NW.

Fuego (Guatemala). Explosions on 9, 12, and 13 October, some accompanied by rumbling sounds and block avalanches, produced ash plumes to 4.1-4.6 km a.s.l. which drifted W. A lahar traveled down the Lajas ravine on 9 October carrying blocks up to 50 cm in diameter.

Kilauea (Hawaii, USA). During 7-13 October lava continued to flow SE through a lava tube system to reach the Waikupanaha ocean entry. Active surface lava flows were revealed in satellite imagery. During 7-10 October intermittent incandescence was seen from Pu’u ‘O’o crater and the East wall vent. The Halema’uma’u crater vent continued to produce a diffuse white plume that drifted mainly SW. Incandescence originated from a source deep inside the vent cavity. A crusted lava pond surface was seen on 13 October. Preliminary measurements indicated that the sulphur dioxide emission rate at the summit remained elevated: the 11 October measurement was 800 tonnes/day (2003-2007 average rate = 140 tonnes/day).

Rabaul (Papua New Guinea). During 2-8 October grey ash plumes from Tavurvur cone rose 2 km above the crater, ashfall was reported in Rabaul town and surrounding areas, incandescence was occasionally visible from the summit crater. An ash plume rose to 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted 75 km NW on 9 October.

Suwanose-jima (Japan). Explosions were reported on 10 and 11 October. A plume rose to 1.5 km a.s.l. on 10 October.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND DISCLAIMER

The foregoing is a summary of the Smithsonian Institution/United States Geological Survey Weekly Volcanic Activity Report covering 7-13 October 2009. It is provided for information only, and is based on but not a substitute for the full report, which comes with its own criteria and disclaimers. The map base is derived from the Smithsonian Institution/USGS/US Naval Research Laboratory This Dynamic Planet website.

For all our coverage of the SI/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports: Weekly Volcanic Activity Reports « The Volcanism Blog.

So, der erste Teil der Reisevorbereitungen ist abgeschlossen, in zwei Tagen geht es auch schon los… Der Rucksack steht bereit, die Kleider sind gewaschen, die letzten Einkäufe sind erledigt und der Lonely Planet für Hawaii wurde ausführlich studiert. Zumindest für Halloween habe ich eine Übernachtung im Voraus gebucht, das wäre sonst zu riskant. An Halloween werde ich natürlich in Honolulu sein, dort kann man wohl am Besten feiern. Als Hostel habe ich nach einigen Recherchen das Waikiki Beachside Hostel gewählt.

Ansonsten steht die grobe Routenplanung, zumindest mal als Entwurf… Nach der Rundreise durch Kalifornien und Nevada (dazu mehr in ein paar Tagen) geht es wohl direkt nach der Ankunft in Honolulu am 26. Oktober mit dem nächsten Flieger weiter nach Hilo auf Big Island. Dort werde ich ein paar Wanderungen im Regenwald machen, wo es traumhafte Wasserfälle geben soll. Außerdem will ich den Kilauea besichtigen, einen der aktivsten Vulkane der USA, dessen jüngster Ausbruch bereits seit 1983 andauert und wo man tagtäglich noch glühende Lava bestaunen kann. Hilo gilt mit 280 Regentagen übrigens als regenreichste Stadt der USA. Ich hoffe, der Wettergott ist mir gut gesonnen und hält sich während meines Besuchs etwas zurück…

Nach Hilo geht es dann mit dem Flieger zurück nach Honolulu auf O’ahu, wo ich am Waikiki Beach mein Lager aufschlagen werde. Dort werde ich ein paar Tage am Strand verbringen, bevor ich dann weiterziehe und die Insel O’ahu ergründe, unter anderem die weltberühmten Surfstrände am North Shore, bevor es dann leider an den langen Rückweg nach Deutschland geht…