Why?
This project seeks to assist the most affected population on the island of Ambae. On 23 September 2017, the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department (VMGD) increased the activity level for Monaro volcano on Ambae island, Penama province to Level 4: a moderate eruption state. A new volcanic cone has formed within one of the two crater lakes (Manaro Vui).
This alert level indicates that flying rocks and volcanic gas will affect the Red Zone – a 6.5 km radius around the volcano crater. Villages located further from the volcano’s crater can expect volcanic hazards, including explosions and ash rain. There is also an increased likelihood that ash falls around the island, especially in villages exposed to the prevailing trade winds direction. . As a result of the volcano’s increased activity over the past few weeks, many of the island’s water sources have been contaminated through ash fall and acid rain. Acid rain may cause damage to food crops and contribute to food insecurity for people living on the island. At this level of activity, the VMGD has advised that the volcano’s activity may increase or decrease at any time without warning. This project takes place on the island of Ambae.
What?
This project will assist the most vulnerable populations on the island of Ambae through emergency shelter, the distribution of water, sanitation, and hygiene non-food items, providing support to the government response, increasing awareness of preparedness measures and evacuation procedures, and replenishing stores of non food items for future disaster preparedness.
Who?
This project reaches 5,500 people.