Lava Falls – Kilauea Volcano

Kilauea Eruption 1983

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Lava Falls – Kilauea Volcano

Photograph by USGS

Pahoehoe lava undulates over a bank of new earth creating a lava falls as it makes its way from Kilauea volcano to the sea. Alternating streaks of orange, red, and black create the tell-tale look that is so unique to molten rock. As opposed to rougher, slower moving a’a lava, pahoehoe lava–meaning ‘smooth, unbroken lava–is hotter and less viscous, keeping a temperature between 1100 and 1200 degrees Celsius.

From the USGS:

“Eruption of Kilauea Volcano beginning in 1983. Lava falls. Photo by J.D. Griggs, September 6, 1983.”

This flow is from a very active volcanic period in 1983.

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