Is Kilauea still erupting?

Question

I just saw this in Fox News: "A tourist is lucky to be alive after plunging nearly 30 feet off a cliff and toward an erupting volcano while visiting a popular Hawaiian hot spot last week."

Answer

Good question — yes, Kīlauea is still considered “active” as of late 2025, and eruptions have occurred on and off at its summit within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Here’s the current situation — and what that means if you plan to visit:

The current eruptive phase began on December 23, 2024, and since then Kīlauea has gone through multiple episodes of lava fountaining, flows, and increased volcanic gas emissions.
The eruptions are “episodic,” meaning the volcano alternates between active phases (with lava fountains, vent activity, and visible lava) and temporary pauses.
During active phases, lava fountains have reached heights up to over 1,000 feet, and the summit crater (in Halemaʻumaʻu) glows or emits visible lava flows.
When not actively erupting, the volcano can still emit elevated volcanic gases (vog), which reduces air quality and can affect visibility and health — especially for sensitive people.
Because of safety and hazard concerns (lava, gas emissions, unstable terrain), access and viewing conditions can change quickly. Park closures, restricted viewing areas, or advisories may be put in place depending on activity.

So yes — Kīlauea is still “erupting,” in the sense that the volcano remains active, with recent and ongoing episodes of lava fountaining and lava flow. But “eruption” doesn’t mean constant, dramatic lava — activity comes in episodes separated by quieter periods.

Given this volatility, if you plan to visit the park:

Check the most recent alerts from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) or the park’s website for live status: summit webcams, hazard alerts, vent activity.
Be prepared for possible closures or restricted areas. Even during quiet phases, vog (volcanic smog) can reduce air quality, especially downwind.
If you want to see lava, plan carefully — lava fountains and flows are episodic, so you may get lucky or miss an “active” window. Expect flexibility and a little luck.

✔️ Bottom line: You did not “miss” the chance — Kīlauea remains active, and with any luck and good conditions you may well see lava or glowing vents on your visit. But don’t count on a constant show: eruptions are unpredictable and episodic. It’s best to monitor updates closely if you want to see the volcano in action.