Geologists collect tephra from December 2020—Kīlauea Volcano

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists collect tephra from the December 2020 deposit, found in the Southwest Rift Zone of Kīlauea Volcano on January 29, 2021. The sample collection and mapping of the deposit helps scientists to better understand the dispersal and extent of the tephra from this eruption. This area of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park remains closed to the public for safety reasons. Sample collection and access to this hazardous area is by permission from, and in coordination with, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. USGS photo taken by D. Downs.