The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department (VMGD) has warned the public and visitors on Ambrym to stay away from the volcano due to increased activity this morning.

Acting Manager, Sandrine Cevuard said communities living close to the volcano should expect ashfall with acid rain, caused by cloud movement above the volcano.

The warning follows an increase in Ambrym’s volcanic activity, which occurred earlier this morning at 6:50AM.

So far, communities have not reported any changes or impacts.

Ms. Cevuard said the volcano is emitting ashes, accompanied by ground movement.

Ambrym Volcano remains at a Major Unrest status, Level 2, which has been in place since 17 January 2024.

She warned that the current situation could lead to an eruption, with or without prior warning.

Ms. Cevuard added that the department is closely monitoring the situation and will release further information if there is any increase in volcanic activity.

Similar activity was recorded on 13 January 2024 and again on 19 April the same year.

The last major eruption of Ambrym Volcano occurred in 2018, marked by high lava activity.

Ms. Cevuard emphasized that volcanoes are slow-onset hazards, meaning changes usually occur gradually rather than suddenly.