Weather Words: 'Pele's Hair' | Weather.com
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Chris DeWeese

ByChris DeWeeseJune 13, 2025

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Hawaii's Kilauea volcano started erupting again on Wednesday, marking the 25th episode of the current ongoing eruption since December. Kilauea's lava fountains have increased the risks from "Pele's Hair," a type of thin and delicate glass fiber formed by gas during volcanic eruptions.

Named after the Hawaiian volcano deity Pele, these fibers are made when gas bubbles near the surface of lava burst, creating long strands of lava “hair.” The fibers are so light that they can become airborne, and it sometimes accumulates in piles like snowdrifts, creating a strange, almost underwater-looking phenomenon. It tends to accrete on treetops, antennas, poles and fences.

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(National Park Service)

Spectators are advised to use care around Pele’s Hair, as it is as sharp as fiberglass, can irritate eyes, skin and respiratory systems, and should not be handled without protective hand gear.

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Senior writer Chris DeWeese edits Morning Brief, The Weather Channel’s newsletter.