Whakaari/White Island Downgraded to Volcanic Alert Level Two

    Image from gas flight on 16 March 2026, showing steam and gas plume exiting the active vent. IMAGE: Karen Britten, ESNZ

    A flyover of the island yesterday, revealed low level eruptive activity has stopped, allowing the volcanic alert level to decrease.

    Earth Science New Zealand Duty Volcanologist Oliver Lamb said observations since the upgrade to level three last week, no further eruptive activity has been recorded. 

    "A new thin ash deposit covers the inner crater floor around the active vent and some of the south side of the island, but no new ash was visible exiting the vent." 

    "Webcam imagery, satellite observations, and a gas flight yesterday have confirmed the eruptive activity has ended with no further detectable ash emissions from the volcano," he said. 

    A decrease in activity in the active vent area was also identified. 

    Although elevated volcanic gas levels were detected, levels were lower than those measured during previous eruptive activity last year.

    The volcanic alert level has decreased to level two and aviation level yellow following these observations but "volcanic activity could re-escalate with little or no warning," Lamb said. 

    Experts will continue to monitor the volcano for any change in activity. 

    We’re committed to keeping the Eastern Bay informed with accurate, timely coverage.
    Have a news tip or story idea? Email news@1xx.co.nz.

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