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Hawaii's volcano could turn violent

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano attracts two million tourists every year, who photograph its spectacular lava rivers. But scientists have discovered explosive eruptions have been far more common through Kilauea's history. If that behaviour returns, it could have implications for Hawaii's economy.

Reporter

Jonathan Amos

Lava pouring into the sea off Kilauea volcano in Hawaii 

9 December 2011

Kilauea's lava flows running into the ocean are a tourist attraction

Report

There's no doubting Kilauea's beauty. Its frequent lava flows running down to the ocean's edge are a big attraction.

But scientists say their latest research indicates that explosive eruptions of ash and rock have been far more common in the past than the gentle, photogenic outflows seen today.

By studying the charred remains of plants caught up in historic blasts, they've established that Kilauea's more violent mode has dominated the last 2,500 years.

A classic example was 1790, when the volcano hurled rock and ash at island inhabitants, killing many hundreds of people. The event remains the most lethal known eruption in America.

Scientists say it's not possible to predict if this violent behaviour will return but should it come back, large parts of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park would be off-limits for a long time.

Scientists say there should be ample warning of a change in behaviour so it's not something local people should worry about just now.

Jonathan Amos, BBC News