White Island Volcano Erupts, Flights Canceled

The White Island volcano, known as Whakaari, erupted in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, sending a significant ash plume into the sky and causing the cancellation of at least 10 flights by Air New Zealand. Government scientists warned that the volcanic activity could continue for 'weeks to months,' raising the volcanic alert level to three out of five. The eruption follows a minor eruptive phase detected earlier this month and has led to concerns about potential impacts on nearby residents, who may smell volcanic gas or experience mild irritation. Air New Zealand is actively monitoring the situation as ash affects flight paths at Tauranga and Rotorua airports. The volcano erupted previously in 2019, resulting in 22 fatalities, and tours have since been banned. Residents have reported ash washing ashore, and a change in wind could exacerbate the situation.