08 Apr 2021 | 11:09 PM UTC
St. Vincent, Grenadines: Authorities order evacuations in north of St. Vincent Island due to volcanic activity April 8
Volcanic activity at La Soufriere prompts evacuations in north of St. Vincent Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, April 8.
Event
Authorities in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have issued evacuation orders for approximately the northern one third of Saint Vincent Island amid increased activity at La Soufriere Volcano on April 8. The evacuation order impacts at least 16 villages within the affected area, including Morneronde, Richmond, Walliabou, Georgetown, and Langley Park, among others. Additionally, all land vehicles and maritime vessels not participating in the evacuation effort are prohibited from the area. La Soufriere is located about 21 km (13 miles) north of Kingstown.
The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) has raised the volcano alert level to "red" indicating that an explosive eruption is imminent. According to an advisory released by NEMO, safe areas include locations from North Union to Kingston on the Windward side of Saint Vincent, and Barouallie to Kingston on the Leeward side of the island; the Grenadine islands are also within the safe zone.
Transport
Plan for possible transport disruptions in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruptive event occurs. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall and visibility could be reduced. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace; authorities might temporarily close additional airport facilities if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Health
Volcanic activity may impact air quality in the surrounding area. Air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater, following an explosive event. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.
Advice
Strictly comply with all evacuation orders and other instructions issued by authorities. Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Plan for possible transportation disruptions in the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.
