“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.