Residents and visitors in Hawaiʻi are being advised by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) to take precautions due to ongoing elevated volcanic gas emissions from Kīlauea. Although the most recent eruption at Kīlauea ended on December 9, high levels of volcanic gases continue to produce vog, a type of volcanic smog that can reduce air quality across the islands.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported that while the eruption has paused, significant volcanic gas emissions remain. These emissions create vog conditions that can impact areas downwind from the summit and pose health risks, especially for sensitive groups. Other hazards include windblown volcanic glass known as Pele’s hair, as well as fragments of rock and ash, which may affect local communities. Air quality is subject to rapid changes depending on emission rates, wind direction, and weather.
Since the eruption began on December 23, 2024, air monitoring stations on Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, and Oʻahu have recorded varying levels of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). While most readings indicate good or moderate air quality overall, stations in southern Hawaiʻi Island have occasionally reported unhealthy levels.
Short-term exposure to increased SO2 and PM2.5 can cause temporary symptoms such as eye or throat discomfort and coughing in some people. Higher concentrations or longer exposure periods may lead to more serious respiratory issues among sensitive individuals. “Contact a medical provider if symptoms develop. Have medications readily on hand. Reduce outdoor activities; stay indoors and close windows and doors. Set air conditioners to recirculate air,” the DOH recommended. The department added: “The DOH does not recommend the use of respirators by the general public to protect against volcanic gases.”
Those considered particularly vulnerable include people with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis, children and infants, elderly individuals, outdoor workers or exercisers, and pregnant women.
For those cleaning up ash or Pele’s hair following an eruptive event, DOH suggests using a well-fitting N95 mask or equivalent for protection against particles during cleanup activities but notes these masks do not protect against toxic gases such as SO2. Protective gloves, long clothing, shoes, and eye protection are also recommended while avoiding actions that stir up ash into the air.
The Hawaii State Department of Health operates statewide programs aimed at protecting health through disease prevention efforts and environmental safeguards as described on its official website. The department delivers services across multiple islands through regional offices while promoting health education about disease outbreaks via its Disease Outbreak Control Division (source). It is also recognized for its preparedness work through its Office of Public Health Preparedness (source).
Additional resources are available online for guidance about reducing exposure during vog events:
– Guide for Particle Pollution | AirNow.gov
– Volcano Watch — Hawaii State Department of Health updates Ambient Air Quality Data website | U.S. Geological Survey
– www.ivhhn.org/ash-protection
Current air quality reports can be found at:
– Clean Air Branch | Hawaii Ambient Air Quality Data
– Vog Information Dashboard | IVHHN
Updates on volcano activity are provided by:
– www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/volcano-updates
More information about DOH’s Clean Air Branch is available at: health.hawaii.gov/cab/
