Lava Fire Hose

By Zoe Cassell

EXPLOSIVE images show the moment a volcano erupts shooting a blazing rare molten lava ‘firehose’ into the Pacific Ocean.

The series of spectacular photographs capture the natural phenomena in eye-wateringly close detail.

These astounding images were taken by photographer Jon Cornforth (45) in his home state of Hawaii, USA, using a Sony A7R2 camera.

“I have been photographing the Hawaiian Islands for over fifteen years. One of my favourite locations is on the Big Island where the active lava from the Kilauea Volcano flows into the ocean,” he said.

“A lava delta that had built up fell into the ocean on New Year’s Eve. Since then, an incredible rare lava ‘firehose’ has been pumping lava directly into the ocean.”

Kilauea Volcano is currently the most active volcano in Hawaii and has been in a state of constant eruption since 1983.

The ‘Big Island’ also known as the island of Hawaii is made up of five volcanoes. Kilauea is found on the southern shore of the island.

“Witnessing lava exploding into the air is a truly incredible experience,” John said.

“This stream of lava pouring into the ocean was constantly shrouded in stream explosions and flying magma.

“I repeatedly hiked out to the active flow at 4am in order to photograph it. I cautiously set up my tripod near the precarious old lava cliff.”

Jon hopes his photography will inspire people to travel but also wants to convey a conservation message.

“I hope that people will support their local environmental groups that work to protect areas that are still undeveloped.”