Friday, August 29, 2014

PNG volcano eruption may disrupt flights

This alert applies to to the following locations: Australia / Papua New Guinea
A major volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea this morning could disrupt flights to and from Australia.

The Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Darwin is monitoring the ash cloud from the Tavurcur volcano on PNG’s East Britain Island, which is slowly drifting southwest.

Senior meteorologist Ian Shepherd said they were watching the cloud closely and providing advice to airlines.

At this time, it is too early to say if the ash cloud will reach Australia. However, planes may be forced to take alternate routes with the ash forecast to move towards the Solomon Islands and then Vanuatu.

Authorities have evacuated communities close to the volcano. Residents of Rabaul town have been advised to remain indoors to avoid falling ash.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

The Australian government has issued a warning against travelling to the area.

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