The volcanic alert level for a submarine volcano on Vanuatu's Epi island has been increased to alert level 1 after it erupted.
The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department (VGMD) said on Facebook locals saw an increase in the activity at the submarine volcano at around 7:48 am on Wednesday (local time).
"Due to ongoing volcanic activity at East Epi submarine volcano with phreatic explosions, light degassing and emissions of ash, the danger zone is at 10km radius around the East Epi sub-marine volcano," VGMD said.
"Latest observations confirmed that the volcanic cone is building up with continuous ash emissions."
The department also said that people on Epi and surrounding islands are advised to stay on alert for any large earthquake associated with the ongoing volcanic eruptions that could trigger a possible tsunami.
"There is also reports of sulphur dioxide followed by phreatic explosions propelling ash some 100 meters high."
VGMD said it will continue to monitor the volcanic activity and update when more important information is available.
