Dr. Carolyn Parcheta, a geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, monitors and responds to Kilauea’s volcanic activity, including rift zone intrusions and eruptions, lava flows, and other geologic processes.  Dr. Parcheta will provide an overview of this summer’s lower East Rift Zone eruption in the Puna District from Leilani Estates to Kapoho after the collapse of the Pu`u  O`o crater floor on April 30, 2018.  Over the next four days, earthquakes recorded an intrusion of magma as it moved down rift toward the lower Puna District.  On May 3, the first fissure opened in the Leilani Estates subdivision; within two weeks, 24 fissures had opened up and down the lower East Rift Zone between Highway 130 and Kapoho.  The first fissures exhibited vigorous spattering, but only produced near-vent spatter mounds and small pads of lava.  But on May 19, the eruption dramatically increased with low lava fountains feeding fast-moving channelized lava flows that cut Highway 137.  Learn what happened next at this free program sponsored by the Friends of the Libraries, Kona.

All programs are subject to change. If you require an auxiliary aid or accommodation due to a disability, please contact the library at least 7 days before the program date.