FIELD REPORT #3 (LIVE UPDATE) DATE: January 24, 2026 (2:20 PM HST) LOCATION: Volcano Village HQ STATUS: RED ALERT / ERUPTION IN PROGRESS / HAZARD WARNING

RED ALERT: EPISODE 41 HAS BEGUN. (1,600-FOOT FOUNTAINS & FALLING GLASS)

The "Basecamp" Intel: The wait is over. The USGS has confirmed that Episode 41 kicked off at 11:10 AM this morning.

Forget the polite "glow" you see in standard travel brochures. We are currently witnessing sustained fountains hitting 1,640 feet (500 meters).

Let me put that number in tactical perspective: That is taller than the Empire State Building. This isn't just an eruption; this is a historic display of power. The seismic tremors we reported yesterday were the prelude to this main event.

The Critical Safety Warning (Read This Before You Drive Up): Here is the intel the generic news feeds are missing, and it is vital for your safety: What goes up must come down.

The USGS has confirmed tephra fall—specifically "Pele's Hair"—in public viewing areas inside the Park and right here in Volcano Village.

This is not confetti. It is sharp, volcanic glass strands. It can damage eyes, irritate skin, and ruin camera lenses.

Tactical Orders for Inbound Travelers: This is a world-class spectacle, but it demands respect. If you are inbound or already on the ground, execute the following:

Eye Protection is Mandatory: Sunglasses are minimum requirements, even at night, to block drifting glass strands. If you have wrap-around safety glasses or goggles, wear them.

Cover Your Skin: Wear a brimmed hat and long sleeves. Do not wipe strands off your skin with your hand; rinse them off.

DO NOT Use Your Windshield Wipers: If you see fine ash or golden strands on your rental car windshield, do not hit the wipers. You will instantly scratch the glass. Rinse it with water first.

The Commander’s Verdict: Get up here. This is the event of the decade. But gear up, stay situationaly aware of wind shifts, and respect the perimeter.

Standby for updates on viewing logistics and crowd movements.