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Some of you may have noticed that Whakaari/ White Island is having a period of heightened activity right now, and as a result, Earth Sciences have released another Volcanic Activity Bulletin (VAB) and we wanted to pass on what this update means.
Whakaari/White Island volcano is now continuously passively erupting a small amount of volcanic ash. As a result of these observations, the Volcanic Alert Level has been raised to Level 3 (minor eruption) and the Aviation Colour Code has been raised to Orange.
Firstly, ESNZ advise that there is no threat to the mainland, but there is a slight chance that small amounts of ash may reach coastal areas, and people might smell the sulphur gases, during onshore winds.
As a reminder, volcanic activity could escalate with little to no warning. Sudden, more explosive events could affect the main crater floor and immediate vicinity of Whakaari.
The closer you are to Whakaari, the higher the risk. We encourage any boaties to read and be aware of the Whakaari White Island Maritime Hazard Map. The Bay of Plenty Regional Council Harbourmaster continues to advise vessels to stay at least 2 nautical miles from the volcano.
If there is any further update we will let you know, but rest assured we have a 24/7 Duty team and we are keeping in close contact with the experts at Earth Sciences.
You can read the full VAB here: GeoNet: Volcanic Activity Bulletin
You can find the Whakaari White Island Maritime Hazard Map here: https://www.bopcivildefence.govt.nz/media/p4ifdmfc/whakaarimaritimemap_v1_280225final_qr-copy.pdf
