No Eruption Detected at Whakaari, But Volcano Remains at Alert Level 2

Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ) said webcam images, a gas flight, and satellite imagery show steam and gas emissions continue at Whakaari/White Island.

It said activity has been consistent over the past two months, and there has been no eruptive activity.

Since 7 April 2026, ESNZ have found no evidence of ash being emitted, and gas emissions have remained at low to moderate levels.

“Observations from a gas flight last week, along with web camera imagery from the mainland, have confirmed only moderate to low steam and gas emissions are occurring from the active vent.”

ESNZ said measurements, taken during the flight, found sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide levels had decreased since the previous flight on 23 April.

“The available data confirm the volcano is not currently erupting, with the overall activity remaining low,” it said.

The volcanic alert level remains at 2, and the aviation colour code at yellow.

ESNZ said despite the alert level signalling “moderate to heightened unrest,” eruptive volcanic activity can still occur with little to no warning.

“Future eruptions could affect the crater floor and immediate vicinity of the island, while ashfall affecting the mainland remains unlikely.”

The Earth Sciences New Zealand Volcano Monitoring Group and the National Geohazards Monitoring Centre will continue to closely monitor Whakaari for any changes in activity.

“Without sensors on the island, our monitoring of Whakaari/White Island continues to rely on remote cameras, satellite imagery, and periodic gas and observation flights,” ESNZ explained.

“Given our lack of real-time monitoring data from the island, we cannot distinguish between Volcanic Alert Level (VAL) 1 and 2.”

“As a result, Whakaari/White Island will remain at least at VAL 2 until on-island monitoring is reinstated”