Volcanoes

The submarine volcanic activity at East of Epi continues to show signs of unrest. The Volcano Alert Level for this submarine volcano at East of Epi Submarine remains at Level 1.

Analysis of new data confirms that the submarine volcano at east of Epi show signs of unrest and its activity is likely to continue at a similar level, consistent with Volcanic Alert Level 1. The volcanic hazards danger zone remains limited at a 2 km radius from the active submarine vents.

Although communities on Epi and neighboring islands may no longer observe visible signs of the volcano activity at the sea surface, seismic data reveals that East Epi volcano continues to show signs of unrest.

The volcanic alert Level for East Epi submarine has been at the Level 1 since 1st February 2023. The current observations are consistent with the Alert Level 1 activity. Level 1 indicates “Signs of unrest, with a volcanic hazards danger zone of 2 km radius risk zone from active submarine vents”.

This is a strong reminder to all ships and boats owners, people from Epi, Tongoa, Shepherds Islands and general public to NOT approach 2 km radius from East Epi active submarine vents (See Est Epi submarine volcano safety map below). This zone is hazardous due to volcanic hazards related to its activity that could occur anytime. Captains of ships and boats, passengers, communities from Epi and neighboring islands should expect to observe volcanic pumice floating on the sea surface. This pumice may be deposited at the coastal areas of Epi Island, neighboring islands and even farther, following the sea current. Submarine volcano survival guide and information about volcanic hazards can be found at the links below:

www.vmgd.gov.vu/geohazards/volcanoes/east-epi

www.vmgd.gov.vu/vmgd/index.php/geohazards/volcano/volcano-info/resources

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department continues to closely monitor this volcano activity. More information will be provided when necessary.

For further information, please contact Geohazards Division at the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department at geohazards@meteo.gov.vu or 24686.