= Mount Manaro Voui Emits Plumes, Affects Waterways =
The Manaro Voui volcano on Vanuatu is actively emitting ash and smoke, with plumes reaching as high as 4 kilometers above sea level. This volcanic activity is causing ‘acid rain,’ which is altering the pH levels in water sources, rendering them more acidic. Authorities are assessing the impact on crops and water supplies, particularly concerning open water tanks and wells. While water from deeper boreholes is considered safer, the overall situation prompts preparedness for potential widespread disruption.
The Penama province is reportedly developing plans for a possible evacuation, a move that could involve the entire island. No mandatory evacuation is in place presently. However, residents in the most impacted zones are advised to relocate to less affected areas if they feel unsafe. A 3-kilometer exclusion zone remains around the volcano's crater. The volcano is currently at Alert Level 3, indicating a minor eruption, with emissions of ash and sulfur dioxide noted.
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Broader Impacts and Concerns
Acid rain, attributed to the volcano's emissions, is having tangible effects on agriculture and the availability of safe drinking water across various islands, including Santo, Malakula, Pentecost, and Ambrym. The ashfall is specifically identified as detrimental to crops and the chemical composition of local water bodies. This environmental stress has led to local populations expressing dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of immediate government response.
The National Disaster Management Office is on-site, closely observing the volcanic activity and evaluating the developing situation. Residents are being urged to stay alert and be ready to evacuate should conditions necessitate it. The 74-year-old resident from Santo noted the ongoing complaints from Ambae islanders regarding government inaction.
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Historical Context and Volcanic Nature
The Manaro Voui volcano, situated on Ambae Island, is characterized as a shield volcano, known for its propensity for frequent activity. Historically, Ambae has experienced significant eruptions, notably a major event in 2017-2018. This past eruption involved phreatomagmatic explosions from Lake Voui, producing ash plumes up to 10-12 kilometers and substantial ashfall, impacting regional aviation and contributing significant sulfur dioxide emissions. The volcano's summit hosts three lakes: Manaro-Ngoru, Manaro-Lakwa, and the presently active Manaro-Voui. Recent assessments in late November and early December noted continuous degassing, steam plumes from Lake Voui, elevated sulfur dioxide, minor thermal anomalies, and persistent volcanic tremor, maintaining the Alert Level at 3.