Kīlauea Update: The Episode 42 Pulse and the Current Pause

Status: Paused // Alert Level: Watch (Orange)

Date: February 16, 2026

The Event: Episode 42 Recap

While most were asleep, Kīlauea put on a massive display of raw power. At approximately 1:50 PM HST on February 15, the summit pressurized for Episode 42. Over the following 9 hours, the Halemaʻumaʻu crater was reshaped by some of the most intense fountaining we’ve seen this year.

Vertical Max: Lava fountains reached a peak height of 1,300 feet (400m).

Volume: At its peak, the eruption discharged nearly 1,000 cubic yards of lava per second.

Duration: The event lasted just under 10 hours, ending abruptly at 11:38 PM HST.

Understanding the Data

This rapid deflation confirms that the shallow magma reservoir has partially emptied. We are now in a Recharge Phase. The volcano is quiet for the moment, but the heat remains visible on the crater floor.

The Shift: From Lava to Stars

For visitors, a "pause" in activity often feels like a missed opportunity. For us at the Lodge, it marks the start of a different mission.

The end of active fountaining has cleared the air of volcanic haze (Vog). With the trade winds flushing the summit, we are entering a window of Bortle 1-2 clarity. These are the cleanest, darkest skies in the Pacific.

Our Recommendation: This is the week for The Celestial Mission. Without the red "lava glow" polluting the horizon, the deep-space visibility is currently at a 30-day peak.

Recovery & Prep

If you spent the last 24 hours on the trails or the rim monitoring the fountains, your system likely needs a reset.

Body Reset: We recommend a session on the OlyLife P90 at the Lodge to help your circulation adjust after the high-altitude exertion.

Fuel: Stop by Ohelo Café for a solid meal—the local catch is the best way to refuel after a long day in the park.

The volcano is taking a breath. We suggest you do the same.