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The Weather Channel

‘Volnado’ swirls around latest Kīlauea outburst

The Weather Channel · Current
The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel
Current

Hawaii’s Kīlauea volcano is once again spewing lava — the 32nd time it has done that in this latest ongoing eruption that began in December. But Tuesday’s event came with a little extra. A “volnado” formed and swirled ash around the volcano’s crater.

Breakdown
  • A 'volnado' formed during Kīlauea's latest eruption. 4s
  • The whirlwind was caused by turbulent mixing of hot and cold air. 8s
  • Loose ash was kicked up in the volcano's crater. 12s
  • This was the 32nd major lava fountain from Kīlauea since December. 18s
Environment