Scientists have identified three main rift zones on Mauna Loa: the Southwest Rift Zone, the Northeast Rift Zone, and the Moku`āweoweo Caldera. Based on historical eruptive patterns and recent seismicity, scientists consider the Northeast Rift Zone and the Moku`āweoweo Caldera to be the most likely candidates for future eruptions.

Northeast Rift Zone (NERZ)

- Most of Mauna Loa's historical eruptions have occurred from vents along the NERZ.

- Recent earthquake swarms have been located beneath this rift zone.

Moku`āweoweo Caldera

- Mauna Loa's summit caldera has been the source of large, caldera-forming eruptions in the past.

- Magma often accumulates beneath the caldera before eventually erupting.

While these two areas are favored locations based on available data and research, the exact location of future eruptions on Mauna Loa cannot be predicted with certainty. Factors such as subsurface magma pathways, the evolution of eruptive conditions, and potential changes in eruptive behavior can influence the specific vent locations during any given eruption.

Given the history of the volcano and the unpredictable nature of magmatic activity, it is crucial for local communities, authorities, and emergency management agencies to remain prepared for various eruption scenarios and follow closely the monitoring and assessment reports issued by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and other relevant authorities.