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Lava Now Outside Pu`u `O`o Crater
March 31, 1997
Lava is no longer confined to a pond in the crater of Pu`u `O`o. Starting at least as early as March 29, lava reappeared in a pit (Episode 51 vent area) on the southwest flank of Pu`u `O`o. As of mid- day on March 31 the lava pad within this pit remains active, and lava is spattering and flowing southward in the next depression to the south before disappearing underground. The Pu`u `O`o pond appeared somewhat higher than its previous depth of about 120-130 m. No lava flows are currently visible either on the ground surface or in lava tubes leading away from Pu`u `O`o. This release will be updated if and when such flows develop.
Pu`u `O`o , at Kilauea Volcano, has been erupting almost continuously since January 3, 1983. However, this is the first time since January 31 of this year that lava has been observed anywhere except within the crater of Pu`u `O`o.
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Updated : 19 March 1998