Kīlauea doesn’t usually run on a schedule, but right now, she’s giving us a rare heads-up.

As of this morning (Jan 23), the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has pinpointed the window for "Episode 41" to begin between today, January 23, and Sunday, January 25.

The Signs are Already Here

Overnight, the summit webcams picked up a "consistent strong glow" and "weak spattering" from the North Vent. But the real story is in the ground deformation. The summit is "inflating" rapidly—think of it like a balloon filling with air.

When that pressure hits its limit, the system releases. That release is the eruption.

What This Means for You

If you have been waiting for the "perfect time" to visit, this is it. The official "Watch" alert is active. The glow is visible at night even before the main fountains start, creating that signature moody, orange-lit atmosphere that photographers love.

Don't wait for the Instagram videos to go viral on Monday morning. By the time the massive fountains are all over social media, the crowds will be here, and the best viewing spots will be packed. Be here for the opening act.

The "Basecamp" Advantage

Eruptions often start in the middle of the night.

• Drive from Hilo: 45 minutes (best case).
• Drive from Kona: 2.5 hours.
• Drive from Aloha Crater Lodge: 5 minutes.

When the sky turns red at 2:00 AM, you want to be the one grabbing a coffee and driving 5 minutes down the road—not the one stuck on the highway.

Check our availability for the weekend window immediately. The mountain is waking up.