September 14, 2023 — Kīlauea summit eruption plume

The plume from the current eruption rises above the floor of Halema‘uma‘u. The most recent measurements, taken September 13, indicate 20,000 tonnes per day of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) are being emitted. Vog (volcanic smog) is a visible haze comprised of gas and an aerosol of tiny particles and acidic droplets created when SO₂ and other gases emitted from a volcano chemically interact with sunlight and atmospheric oxygen, moisture, and dust. Volcanic gas emissions can pose environmental and health risks to nearby communities. USGS photo by L. Gallant.