Eruption

The Department of Environment has analysed sulphur dioxide concentration levels over Fiji, and has confirmed that they are below the World Health Organisation's air quality guidelines.

The Department will continue to closely monitor the situation and work with the Fiji National Disaster Management Office and Fiji Meteorological Service.

Madang Governor Peter Yama said so far, the administration is monitoring the situation at Manam closely until the volcano subsides.

Currently the Manam volcano is at stage three.

Yama said business houses in Madang have been very helpful in assisting with relief supplies to the people of Manam.

Yesterday, local company, JV PNG Investment Construction Ltd, presented K24,000 to Governor Yama for the relief supplies.

He will be visiting the island today to get a glimpse of what has transpired.

This follows reports that media personnel were assaulted whilst trying to gather information during the eruption on the weekend.

A frustrated Madang Governor Peter Yama said media personnel were always on the frontline to get information and alert relevant authorities on situations, therefore they must be respected at all times.

He added that the incident involved a minority group from Baluai village and those involved will be dealt with accordingly.

“On behalf of my people of Madang, I am very sorry for what happened to the media personnel on Sunday.

The Prime Minister also again issued a warning for all coastal communities in the north of the country to be on alert for the risk of tsunami resulting from volcanic activity.

“National Government agencies, led by our disciplined services, have been stood-up to respond to volcanic activity on Kadavor Island,” the Prime Minister said.

“Volcanoes are very unpredictable, we are hearing various reports that activity has been building up and we need to take all precautions to keep our people safe.

“Shipping and boat operators should avoid approaching the island, unless on emergency/relief work,” says the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO).

In its updated situation report, the Observatory said the eruption has increased in violence since yesterday (January 6).

“Ash is being emitted and is being blown to the west-northwest and extends for tens of kilometres,” reports the RVO.

“Reports dated 6th January state that 50-60 percent of the island is covered in volcanic products. During the 6th, emissions darkened in colour and became more voluminous.

Reports have been received of the eruption of a dormant volcano on Kadovar Island, which is home to over 500 people.

The MP says he has received reports from his provincial administration and is on standby for word from the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory.

In terms of funding, Isifu admits that his own electoral funds are limited due to accounts yet to be opened. However, he is in the process of facilitating for funding to assist from the National Disaster Office.

This follows the eruption of a sleeping volcano, which erupted at least 16 hours ago.

Kopar councillor Tom Kelly told this newsroom that the boats were sent out as soon as they noticed that something was wrong. However, the boats are yet to return.

Kopar is the nearest island – at least a thirty-minute boat ride to Kadovar.

Kelly said at the moment, thick clouds can be seen from the island, and the clouds are darker and increasing at an alarming rate.

He said they are yet to receive a response from the disaster office or government.