The explosive eruption of Kilauea in Hawaii, 1924

Abstract

Lava in Halemaumau gradually drained 370 ft in February, disappearing from sight before the end of the month. An earthquake swarm began on the east rift in March; distance of earthquakes from Kilauea summit increased through time and led to a correct forecast that earthquakes would occur in Puna by April. Earthquakes increased in number and intensity during April; ground cracking in Puna began April 23, accompanied by subsidence, as much as 8-12 ft south of a reactivated fault scarp. The crisis was over by April 27. Subsidence of Halemaumau began on April 29, with increase in seismic activity. Explosions began May 13, culminating on May 18; the last rock-throwing explosion was on May 24. The earthquake swarm at Kilauea summit continued at a diminishing rate until about June 24. Glowing intrusive bodies were exposed in the newly-collapsed Halemaumau, now 3,400 ft by 3,000 ft, with a depth of 1,335 ft. The paper contains good photographs of the eruption cloud and boulders thrown out.