Volcanic emissions could reach Antigua and Barbuda and northeast Caribbean today

Office of the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda noted on Tuesday that as per the local met office, volcanic emissions from the La Soufriere volcano in St Vincent could also reach Antigua and Barbuda alongside the rest of the northeast Caribbean region on Wednesday morning.

The emissions could be a result of a shift of winds at the lower levels of the atmosphere.

According to the Met Office, the result of these emissions entering the islands are low, but there is a possible worst-case scenario of it occurring. If it does appear, the outcome would be secondary, at most, but the warning of health difficulties would be elevated, for mainly especially sensitive people with respiratory or heart disease, the aged and children.

It also stated that Antigua and Barbuda had shipped a 20-foot container of different types of supplies to the neighbouring island of St Vincent and the Grenadines on Tuesday.

As per the office of the PM Gaston Browne, the supplies have been shipped by the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), which would assist people of SVG who have been displaced by the recent volcanic eruption caused by the La Soufriere volcano.

The 20-foot container consists of several supplies like water, blankets, water tanks, generators, mosquito nets, cots, rags, sheets, lamps and flashlights.

The office stated that some of the items are the result of a contribution by the local businesses and social organizations, while some things have been taken from the national warehouse.

The press release by Antigua and Barbuda stated that as per the communications with the St Vincent government, SVG requires water, dry goods and toiletries.

It is believed that calls are being made for bulk water rather than smaller bottles.

NODS has also encouraged the people to donate towards the aid effort to reach the office. The received donations will be for wide distribution, and persons are asked not to send packages for families, relatives or friends.