Volcanic Gas & Vog

Hawaiian magma is basaltic, which is very hot and low in silica. This allows gas to escape very easily. This creates vog that travels through the air and can affect communities located downwind.

Explosive Eruptions

Kīlauea erupts in explosive and effusive cycles. When the caldera floor is deep enough to be at or near the water table, water can seep into the vent to trigger steam explosions.

Earthquakes

The magma hotspot below Kīlauea makes it the most active volcano in the world. During eruptions, the flow of magma can trigger widespread seismic activity, including earthquakes. 

Lava Flows

Kīlauea magma is typically mafic or basaltic which thin, runny, and low in silica. This creates gentle effusive lava flows that can slowly spread throughout nearby towns damaging property.