On the Big Island of Hawaii, Kilauea Volcano is erupting in Halemaumau Crater at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It started on Dec. 23 and is fluctuating in intensity. The eruption can stop at any time.
The volcano has erupted this year in other parts of the volcano, but this is the first time it is erupting inside the crater in over a year. Also, unlike the other eruptions, this one is visible from various park overlooks, including Volcano House and Keanakakoi Crater, which requires a 30-minute walk.
"Park rangers remind visitors to stay on the trail, stay out of closed areas and to keep children close, especially when watching Kilauea from viewpoints along Crater Rim Trail," the national park said in a news release after a toddler was reported as nearly running off a 400-foot cliff.
More crowds are expected due to the eruption, as well as increased traffic due to ongoing construction projects. It's recommended to visit during off-peak times before 5 a.m. or after 9 p.m. and to bring a headlamp.
Visitors may check on the status of the eruption from the YouTube live feed or by reading the latest USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory update.