Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

The west vent and lava lake during a pause in Halema‘uma‘u activity

By Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
Color photo of dark, inactive lava lake with a light gas plume emitting from a volcanic vent
Original Thumbnail Medium

Detailed Description

An aerial view of the western portion of Halema‘uma‘u, at Kīlauea summit, during the December 21 helicopter overflight. Eruptive activity is paused, and only a weak gas plume was being emitted from the west vent (center right). Just north of (below) the west vent, a tiny pad of lava remained weakly active within the lake. USGS photo taken by D. Downs.

Sources/Usage

Public Domain.