Small pond of water in Halema‘uma‘u as viewed from the caldera rim

The water pond deep within Halema‘uma‘u is impossible to see from most areas along the rim of Kīlauea's caldera. But one potential viewpoint on the rim was examined today by HVO geologists, who were able to see the small pond of water at the bottom of the crater, despite poor weather and fleeting views through fog. This observation point will allow HVO geologists to monitor changes in the pond from the ground, in addition to aerial views obtained from helicopter overflights. This area of the caldera rim is closed to the public due to ongoing volcanic hazards.