The world’s hottest Christmas tree took shape in Kialuea’s summit caldera on this cool September morning in 2025. The high lava fountain assumed this form briefly, at irregular intervals for about an hour, during the 33rd episode of the eruption that began in December 2024. That eruption sequence is still underway as of this writing, in early 2026. Take close note of the rippled, smudged appearance to the edge of the highest background crater wall, behind and rightward of the fountain. That comes from lens effects imparted by background light passing through extremely hot air currents.
3 W Volcano HI (19 Sep 25) Looking SW
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