The activity at the volcano is currently characterized by weak-to-moderate steam and gas plumes, visible through our webcams in Whakatāne and Te Kaha, as well as satellite imagery. Unlike the period since late December, when ash was frequently present in the plumes, no volcanic ash has been observed over the past week.
Occasionally, larger plumes can be seen from the Bay of Plenty coast, particularly when weather conditions are clear or wind speeds are lighter. Activity can also change rapidly, producing stronger steam and gas plumes visible from the coast.
With no sensors on the island, monitoring efforts rely on remote cameras, satellite imagery, and periodic observation and gas measurement flights.
This recent activity aligns with moderate to heightened volcanic unrest, so the Volcanic Alert Level remains at Level 2. However, due to the absence of volcanic ash emissions, the Aviation Colour Code has been lowered to Yellow.
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