Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Recent collapses at Kamokuna ocean entry underscore on-going hazard

Detailed Description

As seen in late January, the interaction of molten lava and cold seawater at the Kamokuna ocean entry produces an explosion, sending hot fragments and steam high into the air. The sea cliff in this image is about 15 meters (50 feet) high. USGS photo.