"This weak ashing phase is a continuation of the short episodes observed over the past few weeks at Whakaari. Today's is more sustained through time, and due to the northerly wind direction, traces of ash are being transported toward the Bay of Plenty."
Minor-weak ash emission has been occurring since early this morning. Photo / Geonet
In December 2019, 22 people lost their lives – and more than 25 other people suffered serious injuries – after the once-popular tourist attraction erupted.
Geonet says the seismic activity at the volcano today has been minor with low levels of tremor but there is no connection between the emission and seismic activity.
"Webcam images continue to show night glow, suggesting that temperatures in the active vent area probably remain around 500-600C, consistent with recent observations," Geonet said.
"Satellite images from MetService show the volcanic ash going toward the Bay of Plenty coast and reaching the area above it at 1pm. This ash plume is unlikely to create any ashfall on the ground.
"Equipment that provides real-time monitoring on the island is currently degraded and we are continuing to work on restoration options."
Volcanic activity at Whakaari/White Island is consistent with moderate levels of unrest and therefore, the volcanic alert level has not changed.
"The volcanic alert level reflects the current level of volcanic unrest or activity and is not a forecast of future activity," Geonet said.
"While Volcanic Alert Level 2 is mostly associated with volcanic unrest hazards (including discharge of steam and hot volcanic gases, earthquakes, landslides and hydrothermal activity), [the] potential for eruption hazards also exists and eruptions can still occur with little or no warning."
