Lava thrown 65ft into the air as new vent opens in Hawaiian volcano

A new vent has opened on one of the world's most active volcanos, sending lava shooting 65ft into the air.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the fissure eruption on Kilauea was spotted after the floor of the Pu'u O'o crater collapsed.

It occurred along the middle of Kilauea's east rift zone, around two miles west of Pu'u O'o.

Volcanologist Janet Babb said: 'This is what we do. These are the moments we wait for.

'It is exciting to see an eruption begin particularly if you can see it from the very start.'

Kilauea has been in constant eruption since January 3, 1983.

 Interest: Kilauea Volcano has been erupting continuously since 1983

Charred: The molten rock can be seen pouring into a fissure after the 1,605ft vent opened up

Study: Scientists fly in a helicopter above the new vent on Hawaii's Big Island

Activity: Lava flows can be seen on Kilauea Volcano. The eruption threw the red hot molten rock 65ft into the air

Lava: The floor of the Pu'u O'o crater, pictured, collapsed on Saturday triggering new eruptions along the east rift zone

At the summit, lava receded rapidly after the eruption at around 5pm local time on Saturday, but seemed to have slowed yesterday.

There were also around 150 small earthquakes recorded within Kilauea in the last 24 hours.

Scientists said areas near the vent could erupt or collapse without warning, posing a threat to visitors or hikers to the area.

Potentially lethal concentrations of sulphur dioxide gas could also be present within half a mile of vent areas.

Because of the latest activity, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has closed Chain of Craters Road and all east rift zone and coastal trails. Kulanaokuaiki campground has also been closed until further notice.

Ms Babb told the Hawaii Tribune-Herald that the fissure had expanded to around 1,605ft long and scientists were hiking into the remote area to observe it and take readings.

No homes are under threat.