12 Sep 2017

Vanuatu warns of volcanic activity

From , 3:02 pm on 12 September 2017

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department is warning tourists and aviation centres of increased volcanic activity thoroughout the island group.

Meteorologist Esline Bule says tourists must stay at least at least three kilometres away from volcanic craters and the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Wellington is being kept updated in case flights need to be diverted around ash plumes.

She says volcanic ash has already affected some villages on Ambae but the Disaster Management Office has not ordered any evacuations.

She told Jenny Meyer the islands of Ambrym and Ambae are currently the most active but Lopevi is also now starting to awaken.

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Photo: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department