Jun 23 1996, 10:30 am - Ruapehu Volcano

Seismicity emanating from Ruapehu has remained relatively constant during the past 24 hours, and continues to be similar to the time period immediately following the October 14 1995 eruption. Strong north-easterly winds over the last 24 hours have almost completely obscured the records for the high sensitivity seismographs at Whakapapa Village and Ngauruhoe. However, the Tukino seismograph and lower sensitivity Dome seismograph, 700 m from the active crater, have been substantially less affected allowing scientists to continue to monitor seismic activity effectively.

There have been no overflights today, and the summit of the mountain is not visible at time of writing, due to the prevailing weather conditions. Steady rain fall through much of the central North Island is likely to reduce the impact of SO₂ emission from Ruapehu. This volcanic smog (vog) will recur once dry weather conditions are re-established.

The overnight rain fall has removed much of the dust problem in areas affected by the ash falls of Monday and Tuesday. At this stage ash runoff from the volcano has had little visible effect on the Tongariro River, though ECNZ report minor discolouration of the Whakapapa River.

The meteorological forecast indicates a shift of wind direction to the north meaning that any effects from the volcano are likely to be observed in the Wellington region. Ash fall prediction 97/08 was issued at 8:45 am this morning.

The alert level remains at 3.

B.F. Houghton

S. Sherburn