Mauna Loa Insights & Analysis
Expert monitoring data provided by Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)Mauna Loa is the earth's largest active volcano, covering half of the Island of Hawai'i. After a 38-year period of quiescence, its 2022 eruption reminded the world of its massive scale and the speed at which it can impact infrastructure. Tracking a Mauna Loa volcanic eruption is complex due to the extreme speed at which lava can flow down its steep flanks. In 2026, the focus for Mauna Loa monitoring is on the Northeast Rift Zone and the Southwest Rift Zone. Its location also serves as a critical station for global atmospheric monitoring, making its stability vital for both local safety and global science.