New brief eruption from Tongariro volcano, New Zealand

Source: Volcano Discovery - 11/21/12, By T

A brief eruption occurred at Te Maari Craters, Tongariro at approximately 13:25 pm local time today (Wednesday, 21 November 2012).

The eruption occurred from the Upper Te Maari crater, in the same area that erupted on 6 August this year. Today’s eruption lasted for less than 5 minutes although local earthquake activity continued for about 15 minutes. The eruption appears to have ceased for now, GeoNet writes.

GNS Science staff Nico Fournier, Agnes Mazot and Craig Miller witnessed the eruption from a few kilometres away. “We didn’t hear anything but could suddenly see an ominous dark grey cloud of ash drifting towards us” said Dr Fournier. The eruption was also seen by trampers walking on the Tongariro Crossing. There are no reports of injury.

Ash erupted during the first few minutes reached 3 km to 4 km height and was clearly seen from Taupo. A light dusting of ash fell across part of State Highway 46 and north-east towards Turangi but no more ash has been reported this afternoon as the gas and steam cloud drifts towards the south east. Ash is being collected this afternoon and will be analysed at Massey University to assess potential human and animal health effects. Results are expected in the next few days. (GeoNet)