28 Jun 2019 | 07:33 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: State of emergency declared for New Britain volcano June 28 /update 1
Government officials declared state of emergency for Mount Ulawun eruption (West New Britain province) on June 28 as more than 7,000 people flee; Mount Maman (Madang province) erupts June 28
Event
Authorities declared a state of emergency over the ongoing eruption of Mount Ulawaun (West New Britain province) on Friday, June 28. Military troops deployed to the island to assist with relief efforts and the evacuation of between 7,000 and 13,000 people from the vicinity of the volcano. The region's main airport, Hoskins Airport (HKN), remains closed due to ashfall, hampering relief efforts. Further eruption and associated disruptions, including flight cancelations and diversions and road closures from lava flows, are likely in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Mount Manam (Madang province) began erupting on Friday. Localized disruptions and evacuations are possible along with more widespread disruptions to flight paths in the region.
Context
Mount Manam erupted in 2014, killing five people and prompting the evacuation of 3000 people from the island.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and local weather and volcanology reports, avoid the area, anticipate transportation disruptions, including flight cancelations, confirm flight and other travel reservations, wear respiratory masks and other protective clothing if in the affected areas, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuations).
