Vanuatu volcano threatens to erupt, so the local population has to leave the potentially dangerous zone. The volcano has forced more than 7,000 people to flee their homes so far.
Vanuatu authorities have declared an emergency on Ambae island after a recent increase in activity raised fears of an imminent, large-scale disaster. Vanuatu, a South Pacific Ocean nation made up of roughly 80 islands, is home to about 280,000 people.
The rumbling Manaro volcano has been active for a long time, but there are now fears of a major eruption threatening the 10,000 people who live on the island. The possibility of the natural disaster is rather high, so the villagers close to the volcano have been moved to schools. At the time, for the local community, eastern and western regions of Vanuatu are relatively safer, at least, less vulnerable.
The humanitarian assistance is coming to Vanuatu
Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office Director Shadrack Welegtabit confirmed the news that the ship arrived earlier on Wednesday. This ship is carrying food, water and other essential supplies for the thousands of villagers.
A second ship with the humanitarian assistance on its way and is set to arrive on Friday, said Welegtabit,
“We are in the dry season and with the ash contaminating some supplies our biggest concern right now is getting water to those who have been evacuated,”
Mr Welegtabit added.
