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How long will Kilauea’s eruption last?

A volcanologist tackles that and other burning questions about the Hawaii volcano

lava on road

CREEPING FIRE  Lava flowing from new fissures along the eastern flank of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano engulfed part of Makamae Street in a housing subdivision on May 6. 

U.S. Geological Survey

By Carolyn Gramling

- More than 2 years ago

Cracks open in the ground. Lava creeps across roads, swallowing cars and homes. Fountains of molten rock shoot up to 70 meters high, catching treetops on fire.