La Soufrière Volcanic Eruption – St. Vincent & the Grenadines Report of Reponse Operations No. 1

Description of the event - After months of eruption activity since December 2020, la Soufrière volcano in the island of Saint Vincent began explosive eruptions on April 9, and continues to erupt explosively posing danger to zones near the volcano. According to IFRC reports, approximately 16,000 people have been evacuated from communities located at the red and orange zones. UN OCHA reports that St. Vincent Island continues without electricity and water, and some houses have collapsed under the weight of the intense ashfall. There are also growing concerns on the diminishing of air quality, possible contamination of water supply, health risks due to COVID-19, as well as the basic needs of the displaced population.