This is an image of flowing lava.
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S. Rowland/LPI
Flowing Lava
Lava can move in broad flat lava flows, or it can move through tight channels or tubes. Lava flows tend to cool quickly and flow slowly. The fastest lava outside of channels moves at about 6 mi/hr an easy jog, but it normally averages between 2/3 and 1/3 mi/hr.
On the other hand, lava in channels or tubes can move quite quickly. It tends to stay hotter which allows it to flow quickly. It can typically move up to 23 mi/hr (a sprinter's top speed). The speed record for a channel is about 35 mi/hr, faster than any person can run!
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