Volcanic ash from Manaro Volcano has disrupted domestic and international flights across Vanuatu yesterday, leaving passengers stranded and forcing airlines to cancel services.

The disruptions included two international flights from Australia that were unable to travel to Vanuatu, while a number of passengers were left stranded at Bauerfield International Airport.

Manager of the National Geo-Hazards Division, John Junior Niroa, confirmed to VBTC News that ash emissions from Manaro Volcano have increased, with strong winds carrying volcanic ash south-southeast across Vanuatu’s airspace, affecting aviation operations.

“The ash emissions increased and have spread across our airspace. That is one of the reasons flights have been cancelled or put on hold while airlines wait for the intensity of the emissions to decrease. We cannot predict exactly when the ash emissions will reduce because the volcano remains in a minor eruptive phase.”

Mr. Niroa also warned that communities on Ambae should expect acid rain as ash and sulphur emissions continue.

“We still expect acid rain around the islands, especially on Ambae. We are advising communities to cover their water sources and, if possible, protect their food crops because of the increase in ash and sulphur emissions.”

The Vanuatu Tourism Office has also issued a public update, urging visitors and travellers to follow travel advisories from Air Vanuatu and the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department before making travel arrangements.