The RVO reported that during 10-15 August, seismic activity in the Sulu Range fluctuated but remained at low levels. Epicenters of occasional high frequency earthquakes were located between the Sulu Range and the Silanga area, approximately 10 km to the SW. Vapor plumes were emitted from the Silanga Hotsprings and on 15 August an explosion was heard from Mato Hotspring.

Geological Summary. The Sulu Range consists of a cluster of partially overlapping small stratovolcanoes and lava domes in north-central New Britain off Bangula Bay. The 610-m Mount Malopu at the southern end forms the high point of the basaltic-to-rhyolitic complex. Kaiamu maar forms a peninsula with a small lake extending about 1 km into Bangula Bay at the NW side of the Sulu Range. The Walo hydrothermal area, consisting of solfataras and mud pots, lies on the coastal plain west of the SW base of the Sulu Range. No historical eruptions are known from the Sulu Range, although some of the cones display a relatively undissected morphology. A vigorous new fumarolic vent opened in 2006, preceded by vegetation die-off, seismicity, and dust-producing landslides.

Source: Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO)