Halemaʻumaʻu, Hawaii – Video captured by V1cam on December 9, 2025, shows a puahiohio forming near Kīlauea’s active vents, days after episode 38 lava fountaining on December 6.

The footage displays a dramatic swirling column of ash and debris rising from the heated ground, spinning into the cooler air above. Known locally as puahiohio, these phenomena are essentially dust devils, or more specifically ash, tephra, or lava devils depending on the material they lift.

The video highlights the mini vortex in vivid detail, illustrating the intensity of winds and hot debris generated by the heat from the lava. Though smaller than tornadoes, the puahiohio can produce strong, hazardous gusts in the immediate area.

Captured moments like this demonstrate the dynamic and unpredictable nature of Kīlauea, showing the power of volcanic activity in real time. The V1cam footage offers a rare view of these swirling whirlwinds directly above the active vents.

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