28 Dec 2021 | 06:09 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Increased volcanic activity at Ambae Volcano in Vanuatu as of Dec. 28. Authorities have raised volcanic alert level
Increased volcanic activity at Ambae Volcano in Vanuatu as of Dec. 28. Authorities have raised volcanic alert level. Confirm travel plans.
Event
The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department has observed increased levels of volcanic activity at Ambae Volcano, located approximately 255 km (158 miles) north of Port Vila. Since Dec. 5, the volcano is emitting steam and ash above Lake Voui, forming a new cone above the lake.
Authorities have raised the volcanic alert level to level 2 (of 5) and have established a danger zone of 2 km (1.2 miles) from the 2017-2018 active vent. Residents are advised to avoid the danger zone and flowing creeks during heavy rain due to the risk of landslides. Authorities warn that eruptions can occur at any level of unrest with little or no warning. Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area.
Health
Further volcanic activity may impact air quality in Ambae Island. 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.
Transport
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; as of Dec. 28, flights at Redcliffe Airport (RCL), Longana Airport (LOD), and Walaha Airport (WLH) were operating normally. Authorities may temporarily close airport facilities if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Advice
Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near Ambae Volcano over 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.
