Health alert in volcanic zone

People are being warned to stay indoors if they are experiencing ash fall from the latest Tongariro eruption.

A national advisory has been issued by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management after minor volcanic activity began at Tongariro and Te Maari craters late this morning.

It warns the ash fallout could be hazardous in the immediate vicinity of the craters. Light volcanic ash fall can be anticipated downwind of Tongariro and may impact on Waikato, Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne and Bay of Plenty

People living in or near the affected areas should:

If experiencing ash fall, stay indoors. Volcanic ash can be a health hazard, especially if you suffer from breathing difficulty. If outside, seek shelter in a car or building;
When indoors, close all windows and doors to limit the entry of volcanic ash.

If caught in volcanic ash falls:

Wear a dust mask or use a handkerchief or cloth over your nose and mouth;
Protect your eyes by wearing goggles. Wear eyeglasses, not contact lenses as fine ash will get under the lens.
Listen to the radio for updated emergency information and instructions.
Do not tie up phone lines with non-emergency calls.
Stay out of designated restricted zones. Effects of a volcanic eruption can be experienced many kilometres from a volcano.

Detailed safety advice will come from the Department of Conservation, local authorities and emergency services in the area. The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) is assessing information with the assistance of GNS scientific advisers.

GNS Science volcanologists are monitoring the eruption and further information will be released as soon as it is available.

The National Crisis Management Centre is not activated at present, however MCDEM is monitoring the situation.

More information

Emergency Management

ENDS

Date: 21 November 2012

Contact details: 0800 CD EVENT (0800 23 38 368)

Taupō Civil Defence team is responding to the small ash eruption on Mount Tongariro about 1.30pm

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has confirmed the eruption, which is believed to have lasted about two minutes. Locals in the immediate vicinity of Mount Tongariro have also reported the eruption.

A helicopter has been sent up by DOC to survey the mountain to ensure anyone on or around the mountain is safe.

Emergency manager Phil Parker says that with the current wind direction, there is a possibility ash may travel north over Taupō.

END

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Phil Parker • Emergency Manager • 07 376 0803 • 027 493 0557
Vicki Waterhouse • Communications Advisor • 07 376 0718 • 027 644 1129
Leola Abraham • Communications Manager • 07 376 0762 • 021 227 3781
Taupō District Council
www.taupo.govt.nz