Vanuatu's department of geohazards has closed access to the Mt Yasur volcano on Tanna Island, after a lift in volcanic activity from the beginning of this year.
A geohazards team investigated the volcano earlier this week and says there were strong explosions and emissions from all three active vents.
They have lifted the hazard rating to level 3, which closes access to the volcano.
The officials say there's significant ash fall on nearby villages but there are currently no plans to evacuate the inhabitants.
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