There are currently six active volcanoes in Hawaii. These magnificent geological formations are integral to the very existence of the Hawaiian Islands, which are made of one or more volcanoes that first erupted on the floor of the Pacific Ocean, emerging above sea level only after countless eruptions over millennia.
Understanding Active Volcanoes in Hawaii
In geology, an "active" volcano is broadly defined and can encompass more than just those currently erupting. It typically includes volcanoes that have erupted in historical times, those showing signs of unrest, or even those classified as dormant but are expected to erupt again in the future. The six active volcanoes in Hawaii range from frequently erupting giants to those that have been quiet for centuries, as well as a burgeoning submarine volcano.
The U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) closely monitors these dynamic systems, providing vital insights into their behavior and potential hazards. You can find more comprehensive details on these geological wonders and their ongoing monitoring efforts.
The Six Active Hawaiian Volcanoes
The six volcanoes presently considered active in Hawaii are:
| Volcano Name | Location | Status/Last Major Eruption | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kīlauea | Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island) | Very active; frequently erupting, most recently in 2023. | One of the world's most active volcanoes; home to Halemaʻumaʻu crater. |
| Mauna Loa | Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island) | Active; last erupted in 2022. | Earth's largest volcano by volume; immense shield volcano. |
| Hualālai | Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island) | Potentially active; last erupted in 1801. | Westernmost volcano on Hawaiʻi Island; near Kona International Airport. |
| Mauna Kea | Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island) | Dormant; last erupted approximately 4,600 years ago. | Tallest peak in Hawaii from base to summit; renowned for astronomical observatories. |
| Haleakalā | Maui | Potentially active; last erupted between 1475 and 1790. | Dominant volcano forming East Maui; features a large erosional depression. |
| Kama‘ehuakanaloa (formerly Lōʻihi Seamount) | Submarine (off Hawaiʻi Island) | Active submarine volcano; still growing on the seafloor. | Future Hawaiian island in the making; currently 3,200 feet (975 meters) below sea level. |
These volcanoes are part of a continuous process of island formation, showcasing the powerful geological forces that continue to shape the Hawaiian archipelago.
