The island of St Vincent is currently on high alert as La Soufrière, a volcano that has been dormant since 1979, seems to be on the verge of erupting. This seismic event is threatening up to 16,000 residents on the island, which is currently under an evacuation order.
The island is the largest in the nation of St Vincent and the Grenadines, and is the home country of singer Kevin Lyttle of “Turn Me On” fame.
After several days of volcanic activity tremors, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves declared a disaster alert on Wednesday, April 8. Via twitter he stated, “I have issued an evacuation order to all residents living in the RED ZONES on the North East and the North West of the island. All residents are asked to act accordingly with immediate effect to ensure their safety and that of their families.”
Live Video of St Vincent volcano activity
Cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, are sending ships to assist in evacuating residents to nearby islands, including Trinidad and Tobago, that have offered refuge. Venezuela has offered to send supplies and humanitarian support as the St Vincent volcano continues to threaten residents of the island.
While no official channels have been announced, those who want to help can donate through Food for the Poor, a constant support for the Caribbean and Latin America.