Despite limited direct observations in recent weeks, webcam images from Whakatāne and Te Kaha continue to show a rise in ash content within a steam and gas plume at Whakaari/White Island. Similarly, the MetService has detected small amounts of ash in the plume using satellite imagery. From the coast, this appears as a hazy trail extending downwind from the volcano. These signs point to a gradual increase in eruptive activity, prompting the Volcanic Alert Level to be raised to Level 3.
Recent observation and gas measurement flights, along with satellite data, confirm this gradual rise in ash emissions. Although the emissions remain minor, northerly winds can carry the gas and ash plume toward the coast, where residents may notice sulphur-like odours. At this time, ash fall is not expected to impact the Bay of Plenty coastline.
Observation flights have also revealed impact craters on the floor of the main crater, indicating that more explosive activity has occurred at times, with rocks being ejected several hundred metres from the vent. These types of explosive events are typical at Whakaari, often resulting from growing vents becoming temporarily blocked or experiencing increased gas pressure.
Monitoring data, including gas flight results, thermal infrared temperature readings, and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) levels observed via satellite, all show slight upward trends. These are consistent with increasing volcanic activity and more frequent ash emissions.
Steam, gas, and ash emissions remain variable, as they have for several months. Due to limited on-island monitoring, short-duration eruptions may be occurring unnoticed. Nonetheless, the recent activity aligns with low-level eruptive behavior, warranting the elevation of the Volcanic Alert Level to Level 3. The continued ash emissions mean the Aviation Colour Code remains at Orange, reflecting both the increased activity and the heightened uncertainty.
Source: Geonet New Zealand volcano activity update 17 April 2025
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