Its A Rare Caught on Camera! Hawaii’s Kilauea Eruption Creates ‘Volnado’ – Experts Are Stunned by This Unbelievable Phenomenon

Published on November 11, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has once again become the centre of attention, as Kīlauea’s most recent eruption on November 9, 2025, unleashed a stunning ‘Volnado’ alongside towering lava fountains. Episode 36 of the ongoing Halemaʻumaʻu activity began at 11:15 a.m. HST and lasted just over five hours, ending at 4:16 p.m. HST the same day. The eruption saw high lava fountains rising from both the north and south vents, creating a dramatic display of nature’s power.

What Happened?

The eruption at Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, produced a rare phenomenon known as a ‘Volnado’. This occurrence is a hybrid of volcanic activity and tornado-like vortexes, formed when superheated volcanic air interacts with the surrounding environment. As the eruption intensified, the combination of rising molten lava and strong winds created the ‘Volnado’, captivating both scientists and visitors in the area.

Where Did It Happen?

This volcanic spectacle took place within the summit caldera of Kīlauea, located in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, drawing thousands of visitors annually to witness its fiery displays. The eruption occurred within the park’s caldera, a large volcanic depression that serves as the site for much of Kīlauea’s activity.

When Did It Happen?

The eruption episode started promptly at 11:15 a.m. HST on November 9, 2025, and concluded at 4:16 p.m. HST, lasting just over five hours. The brief duration of the eruption did not lessen the impact, as the towering lava fountains and the appearance of the ‘Volnado’ left an indelible impression on those witnessing it in real time.

Why Is It Important?

The eruption of Kīlauea holds significant scientific and safety implications. Not only is this one of the most intense eruptions in recent months, but the appearance of the ‘Volnado’ underscores the unpredictable nature of volcanic activity and its potential to create rare weather phenomena. For scientists, the event offers a unique opportunity to study the interplay between volcanic eruptions and atmospheric conditions, while for locals and tourists, it’s a powerful reminder of the natural forces at work beneath the Earth’s surface.

How Did It Happen?

The ‘Volnado’ occurred due to the combination of high-temperature lava fountains and rapidly rising superheated air interacting with cooler atmospheric conditions. This interaction created the vortex-like formation, pulling volcanic ash and gases into a whirlwind-like structure. Such phenomena are not commonly witnessed, making this event both scientifically fascinating and dangerous. As authorities continue to monitor the eruption, public safety remains a top priority, with guidelines issued for those near the eruption site.

What’s Next for Kīlauea?

As Kīlauea remains highly active, experts from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park continue to monitor the situation. With ongoing eruptions and unpredictable activity, scientists are working on ways to improve eruption forecasts and enhance early warning systems for the safety of visitors and locals. The stunning lava flows, combined with the rare occurrence of the ‘Volnado’, are likely to continue to attract attention from both scientific communities and tourists, with some areas of the park remaining closed for safety.

The eruption of Kīlauea and the appearance of the ‘Volnado’ serve as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of volcanic activity. The Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park remains an awe-inspiring location where visitors can safely witness the incredible power of nature, while scientists continue to study its many mysteries.