The government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines ordered the evacuation of some of the first islands of this small Caribbean territory on Thursday because of the possibility of Upcoming major explosion Seismic activity increased and La Soufrier volcano erupted.
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves (Ralph Gonsalves) of the small Caribbean territory announced a Evacuate the northern part of the island immediately and effectively The zone from the Northern Union to the capital Kingston, and the zone from Balloy to Kingston is considered a safe zone.
In addition, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) has opened its National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC), which operates around the clock.
Gonsalves asked the public at a series of news conferences after the new tremor record held on Thursday Maximum alarm.
The geologist Richard Robertson, the scientist responsible for controlling the volcanic activity of La Soufriere in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, reported that between 3:00 and 10:00 this Thursday, the control station reported that Seismic activity.
He added that long-term exercise was reported, which was a sign, he explained, Fresh magma tries to reach the surface, So all signs indicate that the volcano wants to enter the explosive phase.
Robertson clarified that explosive eruptions can be recorded In the next few hours or days, After clarification, it is not ruled out that the volcano can return to normal.
In any case, as long as there is available information, the control team Still can’t say when Robertson said an explosive eruption may occur. He said: “We are now in a period of explosive activity, and we will not be surprised by this.”
He said: “The volcano has changed and it gives us more signals.” Liquid oozing Then there is the tremor associated with the steam driven by magma.
Robertson said that the material ejected from the volcano is now possible More energy It increases the chance of explosive eruption.
Michelle Forbes, head of NEMO, stated that her team has been in contact with multiple government agencies to Increase preparations for evacuation.
He said that disaster managers are Prepare shelter The National Disaster Management Committee will meet this Thursday and emphasize the need to prepare communities in northern Sao Vicente.
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves (Ralph Gonsalves) emphasized that his government will follow the advice of Robertson and his team of scientists. Contacted the Prime Minister about the potential repatriation of Barbuda. About 20,000 people If needed.
Goncalves said that Barbados and Saint Lucia are willing to accept evacuees, but they will have to Get a vaccine against covid-19. He added that his government also maintains contacts with friendly countries, including United States, Cuba and Venezuela Discuss possible assistance.
In addition, Royal Caribbean Shipping Company reported that it may relocate next week A ship that can hold 1,500 people, They must also be vaccinated.
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