Activity at the volcano is currently characterized by weak-to-moderate steam and gas plumes, occasionally containing minor amounts of ash. The ash in plumes has been variable, as observed through the webcams in Whakatāne and Te Kaha, as well as satellite imagery. This variability was notably demonstrated during monitoring flights on 14 January and through webcam observations on 27 January.
Over the past few weeks, emissions from the volcano have primarily consisted of weak-to-moderate steam and gas plumes, with intermittent observations of very minor ash. The reappearance of ash emissions has been inconsistent and not always detected.
On Monday, 27 January, at 07:10 AM, webcams in Whakatāne and Te Kaha captured a minor event. Weather conditions significantly influence how the activity appears and whether it can be observed. On clear days with lighter winds, larger plumes can often be seen from the Bay of Plenty coast above and downwind of Whakaari. Activity levels can also change abruptly, occasionally producing stronger steam and gas plumes visible from the coast. These plumes may sometimes contain increased amounts of ash.
A gas flight conducted on 14 January confirmed that sulfur dioxide (SO₂) flux from Whakaari remains elevated compared to periods of lower volcanic activity, such as early 2024. SO₂ emissions have also occasionally been detected in Tropomi satellite data. The combination of higher gas emissions and sporadic observations of minor volcanic ash is consistent with elevated activity levels at the volcano.
Source: Geonet New Zealand volcano activity update 28 January 2025