A massive influx of tourists is flocking to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island to witness the explosive beginning of the latest eruption of Kilauea, leading to filled parking areas, congested overlooks, and bustling roads, according to park officials.

Triggered by increased seismic activity, Kilauea erupted around 2:20 a.m. on Monday at the base of Halemaumau crater, with lava spreading over 500 acres of the caldera floor, as reported by the United States Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. This marks the sixth eruption in just four years, with the most recent one occurring in a less accessible area of the park.

Currently, the eruption is confined to the crater, with “fissures on the caldera floor producing lava fountains and feeding lava flows,” the USGS confirmed in an update at 10:59 a.m. local time. There are no immediate dangers to local infrastructure or communities.

During a livestream session, Ken Hon, Head Scientist at USGS HVO, described this eruption as “a really big, voluminous event.”

Kilauea is recognized as one of the globe’s most active volcanoes and serves as a crucial element of the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing the entire national park, making it a top destination on Hawaii Island. When an eruption is visible, the park sees a significant rise in visitors eager to witness the awe-inspiring forces of nature. Park officials noted a sharp increase in visitor numbers on Monday.

For those planning to catch the latest Kilauea eruption, here’s what you need to know.

Where to best view the eruption?

The prime viewing locations include the Crater Rim Trail, specifically Uekahuna, Kilauea Overlook, Wahinekapu (Steaming Bluff), Kupinai Pali (Waldron Ledge), behind Volcano House, Keanakakoʻi, and other overlooks. For safety reasons, visitors are advised to stick to marked trails and overlooks, steering clear of any earth cracks and cliff edges.

In Hawaiian tradition, volcanoes are seen as sacred spaces known as wahi kapu, housing Pelehonuamea, a goddess of creation and destruction, as stated on the park’s website. Cultural practitioners come here to pay tribute to the goddess, and the park encourages everyone to be respectful and quiet while experiencing this natural spectacle.

“While an eruption is a thrilling experience, it’s important to remember that you are witnessing a sacred event,” the park emphasized on Facebook.

Visitors with heart or respiratory issues are advised to be cautious and check air quality before their trip, as volcanic gas and dust can be blown by strong winds.

When is the best time to avoid crowds and see the lava?

Unfortunately, the holiday season already brings heavy crowds to the park, and this eruption is leading to even more visitors. According to a press release, popular viewing spots were already full of cars by Monday afternoon, and traffic is congested.

The park is open 24 hours, making it ideal to visit early in the morning before sunrise or at night after 9 p.m. – seeing the glowing lava against the night sky is also a stunning experience.

If you opt for a nighttime visit, remember to take a flashlight, drive cautiously, and dress suitably. The summit is over 4,000 feet above sea level and can be chilly at night, even in Hawaii.

How long might the eruption last?

It’s difficult to predict the duration of the eruption – a characteristic that adds to the allure of nature. According to the USGS, previous eruptions have lasted anywhere from two weeks to over a year, with their intensity typically diminishing over time. Since eruptions can quickly change or cease altogether, it’s advisable to check the park’s website for the latest information before your visit.