Wellington: A volcano erupted on White Island, New Zealand on Monday, located about 48 kilometres from the eastern coast of North Island, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said.
A volcanic eruption is occurring at White Island and is hazardous in the immediate vicinity of the volcano.
— National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) December 9, 2019
In a tweet, the NEMA said that the eruption was "hazardous in the immediate vicinity of the volcano" and called on people to "act promptly" on upcoming safety advice from local authorities.
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"A volcanic eruption is occurring at White Island and is hazardous in the immediate vicinity of the volcano," NEMA tweeted.
. @geonet have provided an updated Volcanic Alert Bulletin stating ash falls appear to be confined to #WhiteIsland and they do not expect more than a minor amount of ash to reach East Cape in the coming hours.https://t.co/XKDtTnHE04
— National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) December 9, 2019
"#WhiteIsland Detailed safety advice will come from local authorities and emergency services in the area. Act on it promptly," the following tweet read.
Citing local media reports, Sputnik reported that up to 20 people were on or near the island when the eruption began, several of whom have sustained injuries as a result of the eruption.
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A rescue operation is underway. Further details are awaited. (ANI)
