Mauna Loa Observatory - NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory

The 2022 eruption of the Mauna Loa volcano cut off road access to the Mauna Loa Baseline Observatory. Construction on the temporary Mauna Loa Access road was completed on 26 March, 2026.

At this time, there is no site access for the general public to the Mauna Loa Observatory and NOAA has not yet established a public opening date. GML and scientific partners are working together to bring mission critical scientific projects back online. It is still unclear when utility infrastructure will be replaced and power re-established to the site.

We will provide another update as more information becomes available.

Media contact: Theo Stein at (303) 819-7409 or theo.stein@noaa.gov.

USGS / HVO Tilt and Strain Measurements

Organization(s):

US Department of Interior , US Geological Survey / Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

What does this program measure?

We are measuring ground tilt and area-strain associated with volcanic processes. The units for tilt are microradians, and for strain are parts per billion (ppb).

How does this program work?

Three holes more than 100 m deep will be drilled into Mauna Loa. In each hole is an ultra-sensitive strainmeter and a seismic package consisting of a three-component broadband seismometer and a strong-motion sensor. Electronic borehole tilt-and-strain meters may be added high in each hole. This project operates continuously.

Why is this research important?

Both measurements are done to monitor volcanic activity and to enable research into the dynamics of magma emplacement and propagation.

Are there any trends in the data?

Mauna Loa has been relatively quiet since installation. The predominant signal is from seasonal temperature changes that induce very small - but perceptible - changes in the ground surface.

How does this program fit into the big picture?

What is it's role in global climate change?

The instruments monitor an active volcano, potentially a large carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emitter. Nearby Kilauea volcano has been erupting since 1983 and is the largest producer of sulfur dioxide in the US.