29 May 2006

Vanuatu's Lopevi volcano remains under observation

8:16 pm on 29 May 2006

Vanuatu's geology, mine and water department says the volcanic eruption on Lopevi remains graded as level 2 but the heavy ashfall has eased.

The situation on Lopevi has been critical for about two weeks and a geohazards manager at the department, Esline Garae, says the situation remains serious.

"After our flight yesterday we have flown over Lopevi volcano and the volcano is still sending some plum, but lower than two weeks ago, but no more lava flows or ash as it has two to three weeks ago."

Ms Garae says they will continue to observe the volcano.

Another volcanic eruption rated at level two is Yasur on Tanna Island.

And Manaro lake on Ambae has turned red, but the geohazards manager says they have no information at this stage has what caused this.

She says scientists are currently conducting tests at the lake.