Simulation of inflated pahoehoe lava flows

► Simulation is used to assess influence of random factors on emplacement of pahoehoe lobes. ► Random walk approach used here differs substantially from classical Brownian random walk. ► The random walk approach used here accommodates lava inflation as observed in the field. ► Effects of barriers and correlation on the final lobe topography and planform shape are examined. ► Correlation of toes at the lobe margins is an important process controlling the final topography.