Massive ‘Volnado’ Spotted During Kilauea’s 37th Eruption
A rare and awe-inspiring phenomenon was captured on video during the 37th eruption of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii. A massive ‘volnado,’ a swirling column of dust and loose ash, spun up next to a lava fountain, mesmerizing onlookers.
The volnado, a term used to describe a column of ash, dust, and smoke that swirls around during a volcanic eruption, was seen towering above the lava fountain, which reached heights of 500 to 600 feet. This phenomenon is similar to a dust devil, but occurs in the context of a volcanic eruption.
What is a Volnado?
A volnado is not a scientifically recognized term, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, but it is a colloquialism used to describe the swirling column of ash, dust, and smoke that forms during a volcanic eruption. While it may not be a formal term, it is an apt description of the mesmerizing phenomenon that was captured on video during Kilauea’s 37th eruption.
The volnado during Kilauea’s 37th eruption on Tuesday, Nov. 25. (Alyssa Lee (@alee_maui_photography) via Storyful / FOX Weather)
Kilauea’s 37th Eruption
Kilauea’s 37th eruption began on Tuesday afternoon and lasted for nine hours, according to the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. During this time, lava fountains reached heights of 500 to 600 feet, and the volnado was seen spinning next to the lava fountain. The eruption was a significant event, and the volnado was a rare and awe-inspiring sight.
The volnado reached high into the sky, higher than the lava during the eruption. (Alyssa Lee (@alee_maui_photography) via Storyful / FOX Weather)
The video of the volnado was captured by Alyssa Lee, who was at least a mile away from the eruption. Lee described the experience as “fascinating to see Mother Nature put on a show, and so safely.” The video shows the volnado spinning for an extended period, a mesmerizing sight that highlights the power and beauty of volcanic eruptions.
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Image Source: www.foxweather.com
