Private sector, CDC mobilising aid for Vincentians following volcano eruption

The third explosive eruption of St. Vincent’s La Soufrière volcano, which began around 6.35 pm yesterday. (UWI Seismic Research Centre photo)

Guyana’s Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) are mobilising aid for St Vincent and the Grenadines following yesterday’s multiple eruptions of La Soufrière volcano, which spewed ash and steam miles into the air, triggering the evacuation of thousands more from the danger zone.

As of 6.35 last evening a third eruption of the volcano was recorded, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre reported on its Facebook page. The second explosive eruption observed at 2:45 pm yesterday was seen from the country’s capital Kings-town. The first explosion was recorded at approximately 8.40 am yesterday.

In a joint statement, which listed the items needed and the amounts, the agencies said they are seeking to supply as many items as they can to aid in the relief of affected residents. Among the items requested by the PSC and CDC are water tanks, hygiene kits, sleeping mats, a field kitchen, blankets, reflective vest, respirators with filters, caution tape, portable toilets and buckets.