Photo credit: UWI Seismic Research
Washington, D.C. (April 9, 2021) – Today, the La Soufrière volcano on the Caribbean island of St. Vincent erupted and thousands of residents have been ordered to evacuate the surrounding areas. The Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) is assessing the situation and stands in solidarity with the people of St. Vincent.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the communities who are feeling the impact of this natural disaster and are working with partners to determine how best to assist,” said PADF Executive Director Katie Taylor. “The combination of the volcanic eruption and the COVID-19 pandemic poses a double challenge for emergency response.”
Residents are being evacuated to nearby islands, boarding cruise ships, or moving into emergency shelters on other parts of St. Vincent. About 5,000 to 6,000 people live in the affected areas.
According to experts from the Seismic Research Centre at the University of the West Indies, it is possible that there will be property damage and that the eruption could go on for days, weeks, or even months.
La Soufrière is a 4,049-foot volcano that most recently erupted in 1979.
PADF has responded to many of Latin America and the Caribbean’s worst disasters since its founding in 1962 by activating post-disaster recovery efforts and promoting disaster preparedness and resilience in vulnerable communities.
Alfonsa Garcia Calderon
Director of Territorial Development and Governance
Environment and Disaster Resilience Director
Aaron Van Alstine
Senior Program Manager
Disaster Resilience Practice Area Leader
