Vanuatu: State of emergency declared July 27 as Manaro Volcano erupts /update 1

Event

Authorities in Vanuatu declared a state of emergency on Friday, July 27, and issued mandatory evacuation orders for Ambae Island's 10,000 residents due to Manaro Volcano eruptions. Activity began on June 21, but has intensified in recent days as heavy ashfall reportedly blocked out the sun. Authorities have established an exclusion zone within 3 km (1.8 mi) of the volcano and have raised the alert level to 3 (on a five-point scale). As of July 27, air traffic disruptions had been reported at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, and volcanic ash threatened to cause disruptions at other domestic airports. Volcanic activity is likely to continue in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Manaro Volcano entered its current state of activity in September 2017, forcing the complete evacuation of Ambae Island residents, who were permitted to return to their homes after activity calmed in October. The most recent phase of eruptions began on June 21.

Advice

All those present in Vanuatu are advised to avoid affected areas. Individuals already present in these areas are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities; be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation order is given. Monitor developments to the situation.