M4.4 earthquake beneath Lake Taupo, more than 20 aftershocks, New Zealand

M4.4 earthquake beneath Lake Taupo, more than 20 aftershocks, New Zealand

An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.4 struck beneath Lake Taupō, New Zealand on March 5, 2023, followed by more than 20 aftershocks. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at 1, which denotes minor volcanic unrest, and the Aviation Color Code is Green. Although there is no immediate risk, the potential for eruption hazards cannot be entirely ruled out, and it is essential that visitors and residents follow the recommended safety guidelines.

Rising temperature at Ruapehu’s Crater Lake, New Zealand

Rising temperature at Ruapehu’s Crater Lake, New Zealand

Recent activity at New Zealand’s Ruapehu volcano has shown an increase in the temperature of the summit Crater Lake, known as Te Wai ā-moe, rising to more than 30 °C (86 °F) and consistent with heat flow into the lake of about 150-200 MW. Despite this, the level of volcanic unrest activity remains low, with monitoring indicators remaining within the normal range for this type of activity. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at Level 1 and the Aviation Color Code remains Green, indicating a low risk of eruption.

More than 600 aftershocks following M5.6 earthquake beneath Lake Taupō, New Zeland

More than 600 aftershocks following M5.6 earthquake beneath Lake Taupō, New Zeland

More than 600 aftershocks have been recorded following the M5.6 earthquake beneath Lake Taupō, New Zealand on November 30, 2022 — one of the largest recorded in Lake Taupō region. No further unusual activity has been observed and the minor volcanic unrest at Taupō volcano continues. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at 1.

Strong and shallow M5.6 earthquake, numerous aftershocks at Taupō volcano, New Zealand

Strong and shallow M5.6 earthquake, numerous aftershocks at Taupō volcano, New Zealand

Seismic unrest continues at Taupō volcano, New Zealand, with a strong and shallow M5.6 earthquake registered on November 30, 2022. The Volcanic Alert Level for Taupō volcano was increased to Level 1 on September 20, 2022. This was based on ongoing earthquakes and deformation at levels above typical background since May.

Steam and gas plume emissions at White Island volcano, New Zealand

Steam and gas plume emissions at White Island volcano, New Zealand

An observation flight confirms the active vents at New Zealand’s White Island volcano are continuing to emit a moderate steam and gas plume, with rare periods of ash emission. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at 2.