Overnight Friday 27 July to Saturday 28 July the lake level in the Crater Lake at White Island rose by about 3m to 5m. A volcanic earthquake was also recorded indicating an eruption may have occurred. A flow of gas and steam has been present through the lake and from vents near the lake since then. A gas flight on August 1 recorded increases of sulphur gases in the steam and volcanic gas plume.

Since early July there have been intermittent periods of volcanic tremor, becoming more continuous since 28 July. A particularly stronger episode was recorded overnight 4 - 5 August, and ended in a volcanic earthquake at 04:54 am NZST. Examination of the images from the Factory webcam between 04:54 am and 04:57 am on 5 August have revealed an eruption from the Crater Lake, nicely lit by the moon (see photo sequence below).

These phenomena are not unknown for White Island, but this is the first substantial confirmation that small scale eruptions are now occurring on the island and confirms the risk to visitors has increased. White Island is an active volcano and there is always risk when visiting the island. Eruptions can occur at any time with little or no warning. We advise extra caution should be taken if visiting the island.

GNS Science volcanologists are monitoring the activity and further information will be released as soon as it is available.

Michael Rosenberg Duty Volcanologist