Severe volcanic ash and small-craft warning in effect for Barbados

A severe volcanic ash and small-craft warning is in effect for Barbados.

This alert message is valid from 8:30 am Saturday, April 10 and will be updated at 6 pm Saturday, April 10 or sooner if conditions warrant.

A thick plume of volcanic ash from the La Soufriere Volcano in St Vincent is currently affecting the island.

A Small-Craft Warning shall be issued when reduced visibility (less than 5 km) is affecting the marine area.

Hazard Info: At 5 a.m. Saturday, there was another eruption at the La Soufriere volcano in St. Vincent. Satellite imagery continues to show a thick plume of ash traveling easterly towards Barbados.

There have been reports of ashfall across the island late yesterday evening and into this morning. Saharan dust haze also remains present across the island which will continue to reduce visibility. These adverse conditions are expected to continue to affect Barbados with variations in intensity and as a result, the Barbados Meteorological Service has issued a Volcanic Ash Warning.

Key Messages: Residents, visitors, and marine users must take action as ashfall will cause a significant reduction in visibility, and possible respiratory problems for persons who experience difficulty in breathing. Persons with respiratory issues or allergies must travel with, or have close at hand, all prescribed relevant medications in case of an emergency.

Marine users should stay in port, particularly if GPS is not in use on vessels. Closely monitor the forecast for critical updates. Check that livestock have enough food and water. May need to shelter livestock in heavy ashfall.

If you must drive, drive slowly as ashfall may reduce visibility. You may need to use car headlights because of the reduced visibility. Do not use the car’s ventilation system.