Jul 28 1996, 10:00 am - Ruapehu Volcano

Seismic activity has continued at the same relatively low levels seen over the last few days. Although this level of activity is much lower than that of the early part of this eruptive sequence (June 17 - 18), the seismic signal continues to indicate intermittent gas and low levels of ash emission.

Pilots this morning report weak eruptive plumes intermittently to 15,000 feet. The wind conditions mean that ash and gas hazards are largely confined to the mountain in the northern quadrant. A significant local ash fall on the northern slopes was reported by staff of Department of Conservation around 9 am this morning. Prior to the event producing this ash, a haze, caused by the gas emissions, was obscuring parts of the upper cone.

The Alert Level remains at 3.

Bruce Houghton.
rostered Volcano Operations Manager