New Zealand scientists have raised their alert status on a large volcano in the center of the North Island after it was shaken by a series of small earthquakes.

The government's GeoNet seismic monitoring agency Friday raised its six-level volcanic alert around Mount Tongariro from Level 0 to Level 1, meaning the volcano has gone from dormant to showing signs of volcanic unrest.

"Small volcanic earthquakes have been recorded beneath Mount Tongariro. The sequence started on July 13, but soon declined, restarting on July 18 and increasing in number on July 19 and 20," said a statement from GeoNet.

The earthquakes were small, below magnitude 2.5, and about 2 to 7 kilometers below Tongariro's craters.

GeoNet scientists were planning to deploy portable seismic recorders around the epicenters of the quakes, and take samples of selected hot springs, crater lakes and fumaroles in the area, in order to better understand the significance of the quakes.

"Our historic seismic data has shown that these small volcanic earthquakes are common at Tongariro, but usually only occur at an average rate of two per year. We have recorded more than 20 since July 13," said the statement.

Seismic activity indicating unrest was last detected at Tongariro in 2001.

"Our routine volcano monitoring also includes the chemistry of the lakes, springs and fumaroles on Tongariro. These were last sampled in May 2012. The samples collected in May show no anomalies."

Mount Tongariro is a volcanic complex comprising numerous craters and vents.

Ash eruptions were recorded from Tongariro from 1855 to 1897, as well as unconfirmed activity in 1926 to 1927.

Also Friday, Civil Defence Minister Chris Tremain warned New Zealanders agains complacency when it comes to natural hazards.

He said a survey of national levels of preparedness showed 88 percent of New Zealanders had done something or thought about doing something to prepare for an emergency, while 55 percent said they had taken steps to prepare themselves or their household in the last 12 months.

"All New Zealanders need to take steps to ensure they are prepared in an emergency. Research shows the very real need to continue an education campaign, as memories fade quickly and the need to act falls off the 'to-do list' in busy lives," Tremain said in a statement.

Earth Changes Media


Mitch Battros | 



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