Podcast: Kīlauea Eruption—The Nasty Volcanic Chemical You Definitely Shouldn't Breathe

By Cameron English and ChuckDinerstein — Feb 10, 2026

On this episode of Science Dispatch, we dive into the latest Kīlauea eruption and the alarming chemistry behind the air people are breathing. The volcano is releasing massive amounts of sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, hydrochloric acid, and other nasty gases—creating vog (volcanic smog) that irritates lungs, eyes, and skin, especially for sensitive groups. Here's what you need to know.

Image: Wikipedia

Join Cameron English and Dr. Chuck Dinerstein on Episode 155 of the Science Dispatch podcast as they discuss:

Kilauea Blows Its Stack. People Are Breathing a Really Nasty Chemical

The Kilauea volcano, in Hawaii, has been acting up lately, and all kinds of nasty stuff is pouring out of it. But perhaps the chemical of most concern – sulfuric acid – doesn't come from the volcano itself. It results from the expulsion of huge amounts of sulfur dioxide gas, the chemical precursor of sulfuric acid. Let's take a look at some hideous chemistry.

Listen to the Science Dispatch on iTunes Spotify, Stitcher and Google Podcasts. Or add the RSS feed to your favorite podcast app. Join our Dispatch newsletter to get these stories and more delivered to your inbox.

Tags:

Cameron English

Director of Bioscience

Cameron English is a writer, editor and co-host of the Science Facts and Fallacies Podcast. Before joining ACSH, he was managing editor at the Genetic Literacy Project.