The key facts

  • The volcanic alert level has been raised, aviation code — orange (level III).
  • The ash emission is weak, with no signs of explosive eruption.
  • Threat to the mainland is assessed as very unlikely; the activity may continue for weeks.

Alert level raised

On Wednesday, New Zealand raised the volcanic alert level amid ongoing volcanic ash emission at White Island, also known as Whakaari. According to Radio New Zealand, citing Earth Sciences New Zealand, the aviation colour code was raised to orange, that is, level III.

Situation assessment

According to Earth Sciences New Zealand, there is no threat to the mainland — beyond a potentially noticeable sulphur smell and light ashfall. A layer of volcanic ash was observed around the active vent in the Main Crater, with a small amount of it rising in the plume of steam and gas. The emission was weak, and no signs of an explosive eruption were recorded.

Activity outlook

The organisation noted that such activity may continue for weeks, but significant impact on the mainland remains very unlikely. According to it, the likelihood would only increase with a substantial escalation of volcanic activity.

About the volcano

Whakaari is an active andesitic stratovolcano located 48 kilometres (29.8 miles) off the east coast of New Zealand's North Island.