The Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has just released molten lava for the 32nd time since the current eruption began in December. Each episode has brought mesmerizing views of lava fountains, but this latest eruption on September 2 spawned an even more eye-catching phenomenon.

While not an official term, a 'volnado' was observed at Kilauea. This term is compounded from volcano and tornado. This type of event has been observed in the past at Kilauea, but it's considered rare.

A 'volnado' is a whirlwind of sorts that develops near a volcano as a result of the turbulent clash of very hot air and cool air. According to the United States Geological Survey, these whirlwinds are more common (although still rare) near the rim of the crater downwind from where the volcano sits.

The magma erupting from

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