Ambae volcano Alert Level raised to 3, Vanuatu

Seismic data show continuous volcanic tremor and volcano-seismic events, indicating sustained eruptive processes within Lake Voui, while webcam imagery and ground observations confirm ongoing emissions of ash and volcanic gas.

Early on February 24, volcanic clouds reached an estimated height of 2 500 m (8 200 feet) above sea level, approximately 1 004 m (3 293 feet) above the summit, which stands at 1 496 m (4 908 feet). Satellite data detected very high to extremely high sulfur dioxide SO₂ emissions and moderate thermal anomalies, reflecting elevated surface temperatures.

A Volcanic Ash Advisory issued at 09:35 UTC on February 24 reported ash up to 4 900 m (16 000 feet), moving south at about 37 km/h (23 mph). The eruption has been continuous since 17:00 UTC on February 20.

With the transition to Alert Level 3, defined as a minor eruption state, the hazard zone has expanded from Danger Zone A, previously set at 2 km (1.2 miles), to Danger Zone B, extending about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the active vent in Lake Voui. Volcanic projectiles, ashfall, gas emissions, and related hazards may occur at any time within this area.

Ashfall and acid rain may affect villages on Ambae and nearby islands, particularly downwind sectors. Northeasterly winds on February 24 increased the likelihood of ash dispersal toward the southwestern parts of the island.

Elevated activity has been developing since January 2026, when monitoring recorded persistent volcanic tremor and volcano-seismic events. Satellite observations identified sulfur dioxide emissions on January 1 and 28 and low- to moderate-intensity thermal anomalies on multiple dates. Emissions of steam, gas, and ash were observed repeatedly, and on January 22 at 09:15 UTC a dense ash plume rose to approximately 3 000 m (10 000 feet) above sea level.

The Alert Level at that time remained at 2, and the public was advised to remain outside a 2 km (1.2 miles) radius around the active vents.

Ambae, also known as Aoba, is a 2 500 km³ (600 mi³) basaltic shield volcano in the New Hebrides arc. The 16 x 38 km (10 x 24 miles) island contains a summit cone with three crater lakes within nested calderas up to 6 km (3.7 miles) in diameter.

The current eruptive activity remains confined to Lake Voui.

References:

¹ Ambae Volcano warning – VMGD – Issued at 14:00 VUT on February 22, 2026

² Vanuatu authorities confirm minor eruption at Ambae volcano – RNZ – February 24, 2026

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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