Uncovering Kīlauea's Explosive Eruption: The Hunt for Tephra

Scientists from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory are conducting fieldwork to study the deposits from one of Kīlauea's largest explosive eruptions, known as the K-3 eruption. By analyzing samples collected from the eruption site, they aim to understand the intensity, size, and characteristics of the eruption. This research is crucial for interpreting modern monitoring signals and assessing the potential impact of similar eruptions in the future, which could be devastating to nearby communities and disrupt air traffic.