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Pumice Rafts from Manus Volcano Clog Pacific Harbors

6/20/2026

Summary

Manus Volcano Blocks Waters

The May 2024 eruption near Manus Island produced pumice rafts that block the waters.
Satellite images show steam plumes and discolored water above fields of floating rock.
The pumice drift has clogged harbors, jammed boat engines, and prevented fishermen from reaching fishing grounds.
Scientists detected the volcano via satellite and acoustic monitoring, and warn the pumice may drift across the Pacific for months or years.

Summary

Researchers Confirm Eruption

Researchers confirm the 2024 eruption at Titan Ridge, a submarine volcano first recorded in 1972.
Satellite and networks logged thermal anomalies, water-colour shifts, and underwater sound to gauge eruption depth and duration.
Scientists assess whether pumice and volcanic debris could form a new island, depending on water depth, eruption intensity and volume.
The Bismarck Sea sits at a plate junction that drives seismic and volcanic activity, making this eruption rare.

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Manus Volcano Blocks Waters

The May 2024 eruption near Manus Island produced pumice rafts that block the waters.
Satellite images show steam plumes and discolored water above fields of floating rock.
The pumice drift has clogged harbors, jammed boat engines, and prevented fishermen from reaching fishing grounds.
Scientists detected the volcano via satellite and acoustic monitoring, and warn the pumice may drift across the Pacific for months or years.

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