"In general, Manam's activity was at a low level in June although visible and audible activity increased somewhat in mid-month and a trend of inflationary tilt was observed throughout the month. During the first half of the month both craters displayed a low level of activity, emitting white and blue vapours and occasional low-density ash clouds in small quantities. Weak roaring sounds occasionally emanated from Southern Crater. From the 14th, the content of ash in emissions from both craters appeared to increase, and sharper explosion sounds from Southern Crater were heard until the 19th."

Geological Summary. The 10-km-wide island of Manam, lying 13 km off the northern coast of mainland Papua New Guinea, is one of the country's most active volcanoes. Four large radial valleys extend from the unvegetated summit of the conical basaltic-andesitic stratovolcano to its lower flanks. These valleys channel lava flows and pyroclastic avalanches that have sometimes reached the coast. Five small satellitic centers are located near the island's shoreline on the northern, southern, and western sides. Two summit craters are present; both are active, although most observed eruptions have originated from the southern crater, concentrating eruptive products during much of the past century into the SE valley. Frequent eruptions, typically of mild-to-moderate scale, have been recorded since 1616. Occasional larger eruptions have produced pyroclastic flows and lava flows that reached flat-lying coastal areas and entered the sea, sometimes impacting populated areas.

Information Contacts: C. McKee, RVO.