New Zealand volcanic eruption surprises scientists

BBC : Late last night, Mount Tongariro in New Zealand’s North Island erupted for the first time in 115 years, catching scientists and residents off guard. Although scientists had recorded seismic activity in the area in recent weeks, none of the data suggested that an eruption was imminent. The eruption has subsided, but volcanologist Michael Rosenberg says that scientists are not sure if it will be a single event or if it is the start of a longer period of eruptions. Because the initial ash cloud reduced visibility, New Zealand officials had to temporarily close several highways and divert air traffic. The ash has since been blowing east into the Pacific Ocean, and all the closed highways have been reopened.