Level 3 Volcanic Eruption in Vanuatu, 479 People Evacuated, State of Emergency Reimposed

The landscape in Sakao has been transformed by the latest ash fall, plantations of coconuts, gardens, roads, water sources on the creeks were covered by thick ashes. Water supply and access is already a challenge. Nicholson Naki/Vanuatu Red Cross Society)

A volcanic eruption has smothered the Vanuatuan island of Ambae with thick ash leading to mass evacuations.

Vanuatu Meteorology & Geohazard Department (VMDG) announced on July 21 that the Ambae volcano is now at Level three, the minor eruptions category. MP Ralph Regenvanu sent out a message on social media that the cabinet has reimposed a state of emergency and compulsory evacuation of the entire population of Ambae.