Manam volcano in Papua New Guinea erupts, spews massive ash cloud into the sky
An eruption of the Manam volcano sent ash into the air for nearby communities in Papua New Guinea on Wednesday, Jan. 23.
The eruption occurred just before 4 p.m. local time, sending lava down the side of the cliffs and spewing ash into the air.
(Credit: Facebook / Kessy Sawang)
According to the United States Geological Survey, an earthquake was observed just northeast of the volcano approximately two hours before the start of the volcanic eruption.
Communication to the island was cut Wednesday night, when the only Digicel tower was toppled by volcanic activity, the Manam Resettlement Authority reported.
Manam Volcano in Papua New Guinea, as seen from space on June 16, 2010. (Photo/NASA)
"While authorities are issuing ash plume warnings for aviation purposes, ashfall will be generally limited outside of thunderstorms," according to AccuWeather Meteorologist and Air Quality blogger Faith Eherts.
As is usual for this time of year in the South Pacific, summertime thunderstorms could present more issues for the region.
View of volcano Manam, where a resident witnessed a volcanic eruption for the first time on Wednesday evening. The photo was taken from about 60 km (40 miles) from the volcano. (Credit: Instagram/derekschen)
"Thunderstorms could initially blow ash out of the area, but it also provides an opportunity for ash to get pushed to the surface both on gusty winds and in the form of acid rain," Eherts added.
Residents who have not already evacuated should be sure to seek shelter indoors during any stormy weather and heed the warnings of local officials.
(Credit: Facebook / Kessy Sawang)
The community experienced a sudden eruption of Manam back in August 2018, where lava forced the evacuation of 2,000 people from Manam Island, according to NASA. This began a more disruptive period for the Manam volcano.
Most of the island's 9,000 inhabitants were evacuated back in 2004 following a major eruption.
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