Papua New Guinea: Manam Island volcano erupts Aug. 25

Event

The Manam Island volcano erupted at approximately 06:00 (local time) on Saturday, August 25. According to the Papua New Guinea National Disaster Centre, 2000 residents from three villages were forced to evacuate due to the lava flow. An ash column also rose about 15 km (50,000 ft) from the volcano. The Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO) reported that heavy ash fell around the island, with Baliau and Kuluguma being the most impacted areas. An aviation threat warning has been issued by the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (DVAAC) around the ash cloud for the next 12 hours. Aircraft are being warned to reroute around the island due to the cloud. Additional volcanic activity is possible in the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals present in or planning travel to Manam are advised to avoid the above areas, confirm flight and other travel reservations, and closely monitor the situation. In the event of volcanic activity, travelers are advised to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders) and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from ash fall in affected areas.