alert bulletin: Sept 25 2007, 8:23 pm - Ruapehu Volcano

Science Alert Bulletin RUA-07/02 - minor eruptive activity, Alert Level raised to Level 2

An eruption at Mt Ruapehu has occurred at 8:23 pm on 25 September 2007.

An eruption earthquake of magnitude 2.9 of seven minutes duration was recorded.

Pilot reports of an eruption cloud below 15,000 feet and developing have been received.

Reports of a lahar down the Whakapapa skifield have been received from ski field operators.

The ERLAWS warning system indicates a possible lahar in the Whangaehu catchment. It is possible that lahars have occured in other catchments also.

This eruption is similar to, but larger than, the 4 October 2006 eruption, and is more reminiscent of the 1969 and 1975 eruptions.

The Volcano Alert Level has been raised to level 2 (minor eruptive activity).

This Alert Level will be reviewed throughout the night.

More information will be posted as it comes to hand.

Craig Miller
Duty Volcanologist