A volcanic eruption from Mt Taranaki is almost certain to come within the next 50 years - and the consequences could be "catastrophic".
- Watch Auckland get wiped out by undersea volcanic eruption
- Little-known eruption near NZ the biggest in 100 years
- NZ scientists to drill undersea volcano in unprecedented expedition
The mountain's currently assessed as a "moderate-very high hazard" by Taranaki Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM). Its five-year regional plan says a volcanic event is "almost certain" and makes planning for a potential eruption a top priority.
"An eruption of Mount Taranaki is not a matter of 'if', it is a matter of 'when'," CDEM warns on its website.
"Its unbroken geological history of activity tells us that it will in the future. We are in an unusually long (although not unprecedented) lull in activity. Recent research (2014) estimates an 81 percent probability of at least one eruption by 2065."
CDEM's plan says the result of a severe eruption could be "catastrophic", with evacuations and "significant disruption" to regional transport links.
"Direct physical and ash fall impacts would potentially damage residential properties, commercial and industrial structures, infrastructure, transport and service routes, and agricultural operations.
"Further hazards may well develop as a result of damage to hazardous chemical and fuel storage areas."
Newshub.
