New Zealand bracing for severe weather as Cyclone Hale approaches the country

New Zealand bracing for severe weather as Cyclone Hale approaches the country

Tropical Cyclone “Hale” formed on January 7, 2023, as the first named storm of the 2022/23 South Pacific cyclone season. The system tracked into New Zealand’s area of responsibility on January 8 and was reclassified as a tropical low by New Zealand’s MetService.

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.

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.