August 29, 2025 — Kīlauea summit observations and monitoring site maintenance

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Scientists hike to the northwest rim of Kaluapele (Kīlauea summit caldera) for maintenance at the V1cam livestream camera. The crew wears special personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect their eyes and lungs from exposure to tiny volcanic glass particles. Walking on the tephra, which blankets the western rim of the caldera, crushes the delicate glass fragments and sends tiny glass particles into the air, which are irritating to the lungs and eyes. This highlights one of the many hazards around the west rim of the caldera and why the area is closed to the public. USGS photo by M. Patrick taken on August 29, 2025.