Attachments
AMBAE VOLCANO
15°24’0”S 167°50’0”E Summit 4908ft (1496m)
Current Vanuatu Volcano Alert Level: Level 2
The volcanic activity on Ambae continues in the major unrest state. The Ambae Volcanic Alert Level remains at Level 2.
Major volcanic unrest at Ambae continues and remains confined to Lake Voui. Latest field observations and data analysis have confirmed that the Ambae volcanic activity shows ongoing unrest and suggest that its activity is likely to continue at a similar level, consistent with volcanic alert level 2. The volcanic hazards danger zone remains limited at 2 km radius from active vents.
Webcam observation photos shows that Ambae volcanic activity consists of continuous low steam emissions, which may contain water vapor (steam) and/or gases. Satellite imagery shows evidence of continued volcanic degassing of Sulphur dioxide (SO2). Analysis of seismic data also confirmed the ongoing major volcanic unrest activity on Ambae. With this volcanic activity, people of Ambae and neighboring islands can expect to observe volcanic cloud at the summit of Ambae Island.
The Ambae volcanic alert level has been at Level 2 since 27th December 2021. Observations of the current activity are consistent with the Volcanic Alert Level 2. Level 2 indicates “Major unrest, with a volcanic hazards danger zone of 2 km radius from active volcanic vents”. With this current volcanic activity, it is a useful reminder that eruptions can occur with little or no warnings.
All tourism agencies, local authorities, people on Ambae and the general public are strongly reminded that the volcanic hazards danger zone at the summit area remains at the Danger Zone A (See Ambae caldera safety map below) which is approximately about 2 km radius from active vents. This area is hazardous due to the gases, ashes and other related risks. Acid rain can be expected at the summit area and nearby villages, especially, those exposed to prevailing trade winds when the volcanic cloud reaches a few kilometers in height. Danger is also present in areas of flowing creeks during heavy rain due to the presence of remaining volcanic ash from 2017 and 2018 eruption at the summit areas. Villages located near flowing creeks can continually expect changes in stream behavior and larger than normal flow rates during heavy rains. People on Ambae Island need to be aware of the dangerous flows while approaching these creeks during heavy rains. Ambae volcano advice key message and information about volcanic hazards can be found at the link below:
http://www.vmgd.gov.vu/vmgd/index.php/geohazards/volcano/volcano-info/resources
The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department continues to closely monitor this volcano activity. More information will be provided when necessary.