Lava Spines


Lava spines are towering masses of lava that form during slow eruptions of stiff, pasty lava. The lava is so rigid that it maintains its plug-like shape, even as it is pushed tens of feet into the air.

This is a small lava spine formed during the December 1980 eruption. Lava spines are temporary features because the hot rock fractures as it cools. Most spines at Mount St. Helens have collapsed within two weeks.


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Lava Dome Features

Lava Domes

After the Eruption

Mount St. Helens & Other Volcanoes

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