26 Jan 2022 | 02:42 PM UTC
Vanuatu: Increased volcanic activity at Ambrym Volcano as of Jan. 26
Increased volcanic activity at Ambae Volcano, Vanuatu, as of Jan. 26. Authorities raise volcanic alert level.
Event
The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department has observed increased levels of volcanic activity at Ambrym Volcano, located approximately 163 km (101 miles) north of Port Vila, as of Jan. 26. Steam and gas emissions were observed at the Marum crater and moderate and dense ash emissions at the Benbow crater early Jan. 25. Volcanic activity continued to be observed overnight Jan. 25-26.
Authorities have raised the volcanic alert level from Level 1 to Level 2 (of 5), indicating a change from minor unrest to major unrest. Authorities are maintaining exclusion zones of 2 km (1.2 miles) around the Marum crater and 1 km (0.6 miles) around the Benbow crater. 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 on Ambrym 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 Jan. 26, Craig Cove Airport (CCV) flights on Ambrym Island 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 Ambrym 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.
