Hawaii, United States – Volcanic fragments fell from the sky as Kilauea volcano erupted, sending powerful lava fountains high above the landscape.

The US Geological Survey reported that the fountaining episode reached about 1,300 feet (400 m). During the eruption, the plume from Kilauea released tephra that fell within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and also reached nearby communities.

Tephra consists of glassy volcanic fragments formed by lava fountains. These fragments include volcanic ash, pumice, scoria, Pele’s hair and reticulate.

The largest accumulation of tephra was observed at Uekahuna Overlook, where between 4 and 7 inches of the volcanic material built up.

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