Volcanic activity potential threat to Taranaki

The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management has issued a volcanic advisory that volcanic activity is occurring at Mt Tongariro and the Volcanic Alert level for Tongariro has been changed to Level 2. Ash fall has been reported and could pose a threat to areas of the Taranaki region.

Taranaki Civil Defence Emergency Management is monitoring the situation and will release further information as it becomes available.

The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management advises that people living in or near the affected areas should:

• Stay indoors: volcanic ash is a health hazard, especially if you suffer from breathing difficulty. If outside, seek shelter (e.g. 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. Follow any evacuation orders issued by authorities. Refer to the back page of the Yellow Pages for evacuation advice.

• 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 miles from a volcano.