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| Source: GeoNet |
An eruption occurred at White Island (Whaakari) volcano in New Zealand about 9:50 pm on 27 April 2016, GeoNet volcanologist Agnes Mazot confirmed.
GNS volcanologists found dark-green ash deposit from the eruption covering at least 80% of the floor of Main Crater, and up the sides of the crater wall on both the north and south sides.
The volcanic alert level was raised to Level 3 (Minor Volcanic Eruption) and the aviation colour code to Orange. Today, the White Island alert level has been lowered to 2.
GNS Science volcanologists are continuing to monitor the volcano 24/7 using existing instrumentation on the island and occasional measurements made from safe distance, GeoNet Duty Volcanologist Agnes Mazot said.