Volcano threat reduces: La Soufriere Alert changed from Red to Orange

St Vincent and the Grenadines: On the advice of NEMO and Seismic Institute of the University of West Indies, St Vincent and the Grenadines government have reduced the volcanic alert level from red to orange for La Soufriere. NEMO reported that the orange alert does not mean that the threat of eruptions is gone; however, it means that the La Soufriere volcano may resume explosions with less than twenty-four hours' notice. Lead Scientist, Roderick Stewart, stated that the decision was being made considering that there have been no explosions at the volcano since April 22. The number of volcanic tremors has also decreased significantly. After the recommendations and recent trends, the government have taken the decision to allow the return of residents of Petit Bordel to Gordon Yard on the Leeward side of the island and up to Mt. Young near the RUBIS Gas Station on the Windward side of the island. People of these areas can get back to their homes and resume normal activities. The government stated that reduction of volcano alert from red to orange means that people who evacuated from the yellow and orange zones can get back to their homes to resume their lives in the comfort of their homes. NEMO reported that mudflows threaten river valley's surrounding the La Soufriere volcano area, including Wallibou and Rabacca. It added that these mudflows could cause property and life damage to those who come in its path. Furthermore, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) noted that only government-approved essential workers can get access to the red volcanic hazard zone as the conditions continue to be dangerous.