Ruapehu - IGNS - Science Alert Bulletin V95/46

Tuesday 17 October 1995
0900 hours NZDT (UT +13)
Ruapehu Volcanic Activity

Situation Summary

As of 0900 hours, the following information is available.


*     An observation flight late on the afternoon of 16 October had
partially impeded views of the crater. Weak emission of steam and ash from
at least 3 vents largely filled the crater, which is still relatively deep
and dry.  Ash was rising to c. 500m above the crater and the plume was
drifting to the east at low elevations.

*     Overnight tremor levels have continued at low-medium levels.  We
have also recorded a number of small volcanic earthquakes, significantly
more than during the last week but of a relatively small amplitude.

*     Reports from commercial flights via Civil Aviation report poor
visibility and weak ash plumes this morning drifting to the south east.

Summary and Alert Status

The present eruption episode is continuing at a reduced level, with weak
semi-continuous ash emissions.

We advise that the Alert Level remains at 3.

BF Houghton  for
Dr CJN Wilson, Programme Leader, Volcanology