The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards department (VMGD) has confirmed that the Ambrym volcano is in the minor eruption state.
The volcanic eruption is happening in the caldera area.
VMGD Observations and seismic data analysis on 15 December 2018 have confirmed an intra-caldera flank eruption near Marum crater.
The activity consists of ongoing lava flows and lava fountains with ash and gas emissions.
VMGD stated that people from Ambrym and neighbouring islands may view volcanic ash and/or gas plumes and hear volcanic explosions. This is a small-scale eruption
VMGD says the Alert Level for Ambrym volcano has been at the Level 2 since 7 December 2017.
The current activity shows that Ambrym volcano is undergoing a small-scale eruption.
This is consistent with the Alert Level 3 activity.
Level 3 indicates ‘Minor eruption; Danger is now at 2 km around Benbow and 4 km around Marum’.
The possibility that the Ambrym volcano activity escalates to the level of moderate eruption (Level 4) is low for now.
Ambrym volcano is a very active volcano in Vanuatu with large caldera of 12 km in diameter and 2 active craters Marum and Benbow.
The volcano has been active during historical times at both summit and flank vents, producing moderate explosive eruptions and lava flows that have reached the coast.
The larger events include eruptions in 1820, 1894, 1913 or 1929. Over the last seventy years, there are no extra-caldera eruptions. The eruption of 1988, 2015 and now are focused in the caldera.
The VMGD says it continues to closely monitor this volcano activity.