Skifields closed as eruptions continue

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 605, 26 September 1995, Page 2

Skifields closed as eruptions continue

Adecision was made yesterday to close Whakapapa, TuroaandTukino skifields for an initial period of three days whilst scientists from the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences continue to monitor volcanic activity on Mt Ruapehu. Paul Green, regional conservator from the Tongariro Taupo Conservancy of the Department of Conservation, noted the consensus decision was made after consultation between scientists, the police, skifield companies and the Department of

Conservation. Several key factors associated with the eruptions have led to the decision. The current types of seismic activity have never been seen previously at Ruapehu. Saturday's large explosion erupted a larger component of ffesh magmatic rock material than in any other eruption since 1945. There have been increased levels of the magmatic gas sulphur dioxide recorded in the Crater Lake. The occurrence of at least three lahar events in the last week accompanied by a high frequency of other explo-

sions at Crater Lake suggest that further eruptions of a similar magnitude are very likely. Eruptions even larger than those experienced are possible. Regular steam and ash explosions continued throughout Sunday 24 September as scientists inspected current activity and the products of the major eruption that occurred at 4.59pm on Saturday 23 September. Mr Green stressed that the eruption sequence could put visitors at risk from rock ejections and ash in addition to lahars. Currently it is considered

unwise to approach the mountain within a radius of four to five kilometres from the Crater Lake and this has indicated that the skifields should be closed. Club huts at Whakapapa are not currently at high risk but Mr Green suggested clubs may wish to consider closing them in view of the skifields being closed. Track walkers are advised not to travel into valleys where lahars may occur. The situation will be reviewed regularly in the light of further volcanic activity and scientific monitoring.