The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that a volcano in Papua New Guinea erupted on Monday. They are currently evaluating the potential threat of a tsunami for coastal areas in Japan.

The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center in Darwin, Australia reported that Mount Ulawun, located on New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea, erupted at 3:30 p.m. (0630 GMT) on Monday. The eruption released volcanic smoke up to 15,000 meters (50,000 feet) into the air.

The organization stated that they were evaluating the potential effects of a tsunami heading towards Japan on Monday. According to the JMA, the initial waves from the tsunami may arrive at the Izu and Ogasawara islands approximately three hours after the seismic activity caused by the eruption.

The agency has not released any warnings or advisories for a tsunami. They have reported no significant changes in sea levels at observation sites both in and outside Japan.

The Geohazards Management Division of Papua New Guinea, a governmental organization responsible for monitoring seismic activity, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, did not promptly reply to a request for information on Monday.

Australia’s Geoscience agency, a governmental organization, stated that there is no tsunami alert for waters surrounding Australia. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii did not release any warnings.

The JMA advised people living near the coast to remain vigilant in the event of a delayed tsunami. They stated that they were unable to make a immediate prediction about the potential size of the waves.

Source: wral.com