Vanuatu orders evacuation of Ambae Island
by Daria Blackwell 26 Aug 2018 07:33 UTC
The Manaro Voui volcano on Vanuatu's Ambae Island has been erupting since September and the ash has become a serious threat.
The Cabinet of the Pacific island nation has re-imposed a state of emergency and ordered the compulsory evacuation of the entire island, which was once home to about 10,000 people.
Cruisers heading for Vanuatu are asked to bring much needed supplies or to donate to the evacuation centres. "The people of the nation of Vanuatu have long been known to be one of the most welcoming to visiting yachts and many who have visited have said that the most special memories they have are of the time they spent in Vanuatu. This is our chance as the yachting community to show our appreciation for their hospitality and all those memories," said John Hembrow, Down Under Rally and OCC member.
When you visit Vanuatu, go to Vanuatu Yacht Services in Port Vila and speak to Justin Jenkin or Claire Barkhuizen.
Read more on the Down Under Rally website.
This article has been provided by the courtesy of Ocean Cruising Club.