Vanuatu: Increase in volcanic activity

Event

Inhabitants of Vanuatu have been warned of an increase in volcanic activity on several of the archipelago's approximately 80 islands. Evacuations are ongoing on the island of Ambae, where the risk level of the Manaro Voui volcano is currently at Level 3 (out of a scale of 5) on the Vanuatu Volcanic Alert Level; this classification indicates a threat to the island's inhabitants. On Ambrym, the Benbow and Marum volcanoes have been placed under a Level 2 alert - indicating a danger near the craters with eruptions possible; information regarding exclusion zones surrounding the craters can be found here. Alert levels for Mount Garet on Gaua island, Yasur Mount on Tanna island, and Lopevi volcano on Lopevi island also currently stand at Level 2.

Blocked roads and air transportation disruptions are possible in areas affected by falling ash. Some flights to and from Ambae were canceled on Tuesday, April 24.

Context

The Vanuatu Volcanic Alert Level (VVAL) system has five tiers, ranging from level 1 (signs of volcanic unrest) to level 5 (risk of a very large eruption). A mass evacuation of Ambae began on April 13, one day after a three-month long state of emergency was declared on the island due to intensifying volcanic activity. Manaro Voui's last significant eruption was in September 2017, when it prompted the evacuation of the island's approximately 11,000 people. In general, the volcano has exhibited increased activity since 2005.

Vanuatu is located in an active seismic belt known as the Pacific Ring of Fire and frequently experiences earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor local media coverage, be prepared for further volcanic activity, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.