GNS Science recorded a minor volcanic eruption on Whakaari White Island this morning at 8:20am.
The minor eruption was observed as a vigorous steam plume above the island.
The Volcanic Alert Level for Whakaari White Island has now been raised to 3.
"As we have no sensors on the island we are relying on webcams and satellite imagery to assess the situation," says GNS Volcanologist, Yannik Behr.
"Based on our limited information there were no clear indications of ash in the plume and if there was it would be unlikely to reach the mainland under current wind conditions,"
"The steam plume above the island has now reverted to more normal levels," Behr says.
Boaties are asked to avoid the area in the interim.
"GNS Science volcanologists are monitoring the volcano and further information will be released as soon as it is available. As that information becomes available, we may change the Volcanic Alert Level to more accurately reflect the current situation," Behr says.
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