Feb 12 1999, 11:40 am - White Island Volcano

Eruptive activity at White Island remains at a low level. Observations during a visit on Friday February 12 confirms activity within Metra Crater is now confined to low energy hydrothermal activity, the activity being dominated by volcanic gas and steam emissions from small scale fumaroles on the northern and western sides of the crater. Four small, green-yellow coloured ponds have also formed on the floor of this crater.

PeeJay vent has enlarged slightly and continues to produce a weakly ash-charged eruption plume. On Friday the plume was rising 400 - 500 m above the vent, before trailing off downwind of the volcano. This plume formed a low level, weak volcanic-haze (vaze) which could be observed for 40 - 50 km. The plume emission continues to be dominated by volcanic gas (SO₂) and steam.

Volcanic tremor levels have remained low since January 22. In summary, eruptive activity remains low at White Island, but has not totally stopped. The current level of eruptive activity confirms an Alert Level of 1.

Brad Scott
Volcano Surveillance Manager