Carbon dioxide (CO2) flux was 1,800 tons per day, sulphur dioxide (SO2) flux was 366 tons per day and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) flux was 15 tons per day. These values are similar to that from the last gas flight survey on 19 December 2012.

Observations during the flight revealed that the mud geysering in the main crater lake is still vigorous.

While the new gas data do not suggest an imminent large eruption, both the ongoing mud geysering and the increased seismic activity indicate that White Island is still at an elevated state of unrest.

Future eruptions are possible with little or no warning. The level of unrest does mean that there is an increased hazard to visitors.

Agnes Mazot Duty Volcanologist