Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO)

Manam volcano smokes again

The Rabaul Volcanological Observatory’s (RVO) warning system was triggered yesterday at around 1.55pm.

The Real-time Seismic-Amplitude Measurement (RSAM), which is the average value of the size (amplitude) and number of guria (quakes) recorded in a specified period, triggered a warning when it exceeded 300.

No casualties reported from eruption

In its December 10th report, the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO) confirmed lava flow into the Northeast Valley yesterday morning.

“The flow tracked down the southern side of the valley towards Boakure village but stopped well short of the village.

“Ash and scoria fall was described to be moderate in the downwind areas, including Warisi village on the southeast side of the island.

“The system is still dynamic and volatile and therefore the potential for further eruptive activity in the future is still high.”

Manam eruption slows down

The Haus Guria’s Real-time Seismic-Amplitude Measurement (RSAM) was triggered at around 12.15pm yesterday.

The eruption, from the main crater, was “marked by forceful ash cloud emissions, explosions spewing assorted lava fragments above the crater area and sub-continuous to continuous rumbling and roaring noises”.

The latest report at 11.50pm said seismicity associated with the eruption has slowly declined.

Though the eruptive activity continued with dark ash plume emissions, it was less frequent as well.

6.7 quake strikes southern New Ireland: Pom Observatory

The earthquake, which has a depth of 53km, occurred as a result of interaction between the Pacific and South Bismarck Plates.

Location: 4.4 degrees S, 153.2 degrees E

Place: About 25km SE of Lasu

Furthermore, an official from the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO) advised Loop PNG that PMGO’s report is more accurate as their recording station is closer to the epicenter than other foreign observatories, especially in terms of triangulation.

Kadovar eruption slowing down: RVO

In its 17th situation report, the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO) said the main crater produced moderate emissions of thick white vapour clouds whilst the western vent produced weak to moderate thin-to-thick white vapour.

“A continuous white steam plume is rising from the SE coastal vent to 100m above the island and is then blown to the SE,” reported the Observatory.

“Sub-continuous dull glow was visible throughout the night of the (January) 28-29th.”

Kadovar eruption continues

The Rabaul Volcanological Observatory, in its 12th situation report, noted several discrete explosions on Sunday morning from the same vent, described as moderate to large.

“The main crater produced weak to moderate dark grey ash clouds to 500-800m above the summit,” reported the RVO.

“It is referred to as continuous vulcanian activity.”

The Observatory has reported that sulphur dioxide (SO2) gases are being emitted from the volcano and have shown a strong signal in the last few days.

RVO refutes second volcanic eruption claims

“Reports of 12km high plumes above Bam (Biem) and Kadovar were probably thunder clouds,” stated the Observatory.

Furthermore, the RVO said meteorologists have reported thunderstorms in the vicinity, with tops consistent with the 12km reported heights.

“The images from Bam (Biem) purportedly showing a ‘sulphur plume’ in the water at the coast are probably showing long standing thermal feature,” says the Observatory.

Additionally, the RVO said a number of islanders returning from Biem yesterday have reported no unusual activity apart from tremors.

Sensor to be installed on Kadovar: RVO

The dormant volcano on the remote island erupted on January 5 and has since been emitting ash and steam.

Two officers from the Observatory are expected to be on site early next week to install the sensor.

“The sensor (seismometer) detects earthquakes (volcano-related),” the RVO explained to Loop PNG.

“The data recorded will help the guys in determining the status of the activity.”

Meanwhile, another RVO staff is expected in Wewak later today to carry out an aerial inspection of the volcanic island.

Island’s entire surface area impacted: Observatory

Thankfully, 591 locals have been evacuated to Blup Blup Island in the north without any reports of casualties.

The Rabaul Volcanological Observatory has reported that Kadovar continues to erupt with ash and steam still being emitted.

“Satellite based observations of the eruption indicate that there have been no significant SO2 (sulfur dioxide) emissions to date,” states RVO.

Public urged to avoid Kadovar

“Shipping and boat operators should avoid approaching the island, unless on emergency/relief work,” says the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO).

In its updated situation report, the Observatory said the eruption has increased in violence since yesterday (January 6).

“Ash is being emitted and is being blown to the west-northwest and extends for tens of kilometres,” reports the RVO.

“Reports dated 6th January state that 50-60 percent of the island is covered in volcanic products. During the 6th, emissions darkened in colour and became more voluminous.