Breaking news today – Ambrym Volcano (Vanuatu) has erupted.
On Dec 15 2018, a large eruptive episode brought about the destruction of the famed lava lakes of Ambrym (Benbow and Marum). The prominent glows from each crater turned to darkness and all was silent. What was one of most incredible wonders of the world was gone and we were devastated. But in breaking news today, it appears Ambrym has awoken.
At just after 5:00AM local time, an eruption took place in Benbow crater, producing a plume to 1.8km. Further eruptions followed, with local villagers (who we have spoken with) hearing loud explosions. Steam has also been observed in Marum’s crater with smaller eruptions occurring there also. At around 2:30PM, more seismicity was detected and a larger ash plume observed at Benbow crater. VMGD has increased the Alert Level to 2 (major unrest).
The eruption from Benbow crater at around 6.45AM local time (Source: VMGD)
The eruption from Benbow crater at around 3.30PM local time (Source: VMGD)
Seismogram
The danger zones remain 1 km around Benbow and 2 km around Marum craters including Maben-Mbwelesu, Niri-Mbwelesu and Mbwelesu.
You can read more about the 2018 eruptive activity and destruction of the lava lakes and our post eruption expedition.
Update: As the sun set, Benbow’s crater started to glow a stunning orange, meaning there is a volume of lava present.
