KILAUEA (HawaiiNewsNow) - A so-called “volnado” was spotted at Kilauea during episode 36 of the current eruption.

The atmospheric feature is actually a dust devil that formed from the combination of intense heat and unstable atmospheric conditions.

According to geological experts, it happens when fine volcanic particulates are lifted into the atmosphere by unstable and buoyant hot air.

As hot air continues to rise from the intense heat of the volcano, the particles start to spin faster and pull more air into the circulation near its base, creating the “volnado.”

The circulation is visible due to the lifting of dust, ash, tephra, and Pele’s hair in the summit area.

The U.S. Geological Survey said episode 36 began at around 11:15 a.m. on Sunday, with lava fountains spraying up to 1,000

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