Mount LamingtonMount Lamington at a Glance
About Mount Lamington
Mount Lamington is a steep-walled stratovolcano in Oro Province, Papua New Guinea, that produced a catastrophic eruption in 1951. The eruption was one of the most deadly volcanic disasters in the region’s modern history.
The volcano’s 1951 eruption produced pyroclastic flows and widespread ashfall that destroyed villages on the surrounding slopes and caused extensive loss of life and infrastructure. Since that event the volcano has been the subject of study and ongoing monitoring for volcanic hazards.
Mount Lamington rises from near the coastal plains of Oro Province and is accessed from nearby provincial centers; its steep slopes and tropical rainforest cover make travel challenging in many areas.
- 1951 eruption: A major explosive eruption in 1951 caused widespread destruction and thousands of fatalities, transforming local settlement patterns and prompting extensive relief efforts.
What to See#
- 1951 eruption zone: The area devastated by the 1951 eruption contains broad pyroclastic-flow deposits and altered slopes that remain a conspicuous part of the mountain’s profile.
Best Time to Visit Mount Lamington
Plan visits for the drier months when road and trail access are more reliable.
Weather & Climate near Mount Lamington
Mount Lamington's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 14°C to 26°C. Heavy rainfall (2909 mm/year), wettest in January.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 16° - 26° | 21° | 318 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 16° - 26° | 21° | 306 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 16° - 26° | 21° | 309 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 15° - 25° | 20° | 283 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 16° - 24° | 20° | 265 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 15° - 24° | 19° | 180 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 14° - 23° | 19° | 178 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 14° - 23° | 19° | 164 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 15° - 24° | 19° | 189 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 15° - 25° | 20° | 224 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 15° - 25° | 20° | 210 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 16° - 26° | 21° | 283 mm | - | - | 2.4 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Mount Lamington
Access involves regional flights to nearby airstrips and then overland transfers; local transport and coordination with provincial authorities are necessary. Due to its remoteness, organize logistics through experienced local operators.
Tips for Visiting Mount Lamington
- Lamington is an active volcanic dome; avoid approach during heavy rain or increased fumarolic activity.
- Coordinate with local villages and provincial authorities for safe access and up-to-date advisories.
- Bring layered clothing-the coastal lowlands are hot, but highland winds on the flanks can be cool.