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.

Taupō Volcano – Volcanic Alert Level raised to Level 1, New Zealand

Taupō Volcano – Volcanic Alert Level raised to Level 1, New Zealand

The Volcanic Alert Level (VAL) for Taupō Volcano, New Zealand was raised to 1 (minor volcanic unrest) on September 20, 2022. The unrest is causing earthquakes and ground deformation at the volcano. The last eruption of this volcano took place in 260 CE.

Two slow-motion earthquakes under North Island, New Zealand

Two slow-motion earthquakes under North Island, New Zealand

Two slow-motion earthquakes have been taking place so far in 2022 under the central and eastern North Island, New Zealand. These events are like earthquakes in slow motion, unfolding over weeks to months and cannot be felt by humans.

Very bright daylight meteor over New Zealand, loud boom reported

Very bright daylight meteor over New Zealand, loud boom reported

A very bright daylight fireball was seen and recorded over Wellington, New Zealand at around 01:50 UTC on July 7, 2022 (13:50 LT). The event lasted about 10 seconds and was followed by a loud boom. It provided a wealth of scientific data as it left signatures on weather radars, seismometers, and geostationary satellites.

Brief period of strong volcanic tremor under Ruapehu, New Zealand

Brief period of strong volcanic tremor under Ruapehu, New Zealand

A brief period of strong volcanic tremor was recorded over the weekend at Ruapehu volcano, New Zealand. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at Level 2. An eruption at the volcano may occur at any level, and levels may not move in sequence as activity can change rapidly.