Kīlauea ocean entry hazards: The plume is not your friend

The explosive interaction of hot lava entering cool seawater throws spatter (clots of molten lava, visible at center of image) from the leading edge of the lava delta forming at Kīlauea's Kamokuna ocean entry. This vigorous interaction also generates a billowy white "laze" plume composed of condensed seawater steam laced with hydrochloric acid and tiny shards of volcanic glass. The plume cloud is especially hazardous for visitors who, in an effort to see the ocean entry, venture beyond posted warning signs along the coast. USGS photo.