
The last week’s observation and thermal infrared (IR) measurement flight reported very hot gas (498 to 654°C) being emitted from some of the vents on the 2019 lava extrusion.
Elevated levels of gas emissions continue but the ratio of carbon dioxide (CO2) to sulfur dioxide (SO2) has decreased. A more detailed evaluation of this observation supports the presence of magma at shallow depth.
Persistent observations of a night glow on the web cameras indicate continued emissions of high-temperature gases.
The seismic activity including volcanic tremor has generally remained at low levels.
Ground deformation shows an overall pattern of subsidence, with some variability.
Therefore, the local observatory Geonet decided to rise the Volcanic Alert Level to 2 and the Aviation Colour Code to Yellow.
Source: GeoNet New Zealand volcano activity update 26 July 2021