They can occur when viscous magma, typically of rhyolitic to andesitic type, is involved, and share some similarities with Vulcanian eruptions.
The most important characteristic of a Peléan eruption is the presence of a glowing avalanche of hot volcanic ash, called a pyroclastic flow.
Short flows of ash or creation of pumice cones may be observed as well.
The tephra deposits have lower volume and range than the corresponding Plinian and Vulcanian eruptions.
The viscous magma then forms a steep-sided dome or volcanic spine in the volcano's vent.