East Epi submarine volcano

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD) said, “Latest data analyses from the monitoring system shows that the volcano seismicity is sustained but there is no manifestation at the surface. The phreatic explosions propelling ash some 100m into the atmosphere only lasted a few hours on the 1st of February 2023.”

The latest observations confirmed no steam above the water surface.

“With the ongoing volcano activity and its associated hazards, the danger zone remains at 2Km radius from the active submarine vent.

According to the department, steam gases emerging from the submarine volcano have decreased this morning.

The latest observation from the Geohazards team shows high levels of sulphur dioxide around the area of the submarine volcano.

However, the Volcanic Alert Level is maintained at Level 1.

The observations also confirmed that the volcanic cone is building up with less ash emissions.  

Aviation and mariners have been advised that the danger zone is along the East side of Epi Island.