On the Big Island of Hawaii, scientists have warned there could be a hazardous eruption from the Kilauea volcano.
The volcano's crater floor collapsed over the weekend, sending torrents of molten rock 65 feet into the air.
"As a volcanologist, this is what we do. These are the moments we wait for," volcanologist Janet Babb told KHON2. "It is exciting to see an eruption begin particularly if you can see it from the very start."
Scientists said area near the crater could erupt or collapse without warning, causing a threat to nearby visitors or hikers. Also, lethal combinations of sulpher dioxide gas could be present in the area within about a half-mile radius.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has closed Chain of Craters Road and all east rift zone and coastal trails because of the latest activity.
The volcano is one of the most active in the world and has been in constant eruption since Jan. 3, 1983.