Vanuatu’s aviation warning issued last Thursday remains largely localised as minor eruptions continue within Lake Voui at Ambae volcano, authorities said in their latest update, with no disruption to local or international flights reported so far. The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD) confirmed Alert Level Three remains in force and a strict three-kilometre exclusion around the active vent — designated Danger Area B — is still in effect.
VMGD’s advisory said ash emissions have decreased in recent days while volcanic gas output persists. Seismic activity has fallen since Saturday, but volcanic tremor levels remain elevated, indicating continued unrest beneath the summit. Observers report that volcanic clouds above the crater have reduced in height and turned predominantly white, a sign the activity has shifted toward steam and gas rather than heavy ash production.
The department noted the current conditions contrast with stronger activity earlier in March, when an ash plume from Ambae reached about 13,000 feet on 7 March and drifted west. That episode prompted wider concern for aviation and communities downwind; the new update stresses that, at present, the aviation warning remains localised to the immediate danger area and no flights have been affected.
Ground assessments carried out on Ambae show that ash previously deposited on villages in South and West Ambae has largely dissipated, with most remaining material now confined to the summit area. VMGD warned, however, that communities outside the exclusion zone still face secondary hazards. When volcanic clouds rise to sufficient heights, downwind settlements may experience ashfall and acid rain, both of which can damage crops, contaminate water supplies and pose health risks.
Officials also highlighted the danger posed by heavy rains. Volcanic ash accumulated in watersheds can mobilise into fast-moving mud flows and lahars during downpours, and crossing streams becomes particularly hazardous. VMGD cautioned about potential contamination of drinking water and urged residents to avoid stream crossings and to protect water sources where possible.
For now, authorities are maintaining a cautious stance. The combination of reduced ash but continuing gas emissions and sustained tremor means conditions could change quickly, the VMGD said. The exclusion zone around Lake Voui remains enforced and local communities are being kept informed of any changes to alert levels or aviation notices.
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