PHILIPSBURG--The government of Sint Maarten made contact with Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves on April 8, 2021, regarding the possible approaching emergency - the eruption of La Soufriere Volcano in Northern Saint Vincent.
Reports at the time mentioned that the volcano was expected to erupt within the hours or days. For this reason, government reached out to show solidarity and offer support if the need arises. During the conversation, Gonsalves conveyed that he had indeed just ordered the evacuation of the red zone as more activity had been noted. Residents are being evacuated to shelters in safe zones and off island via boat to neighbouring islands.
Deputy Prime Minister Egbert Doran stated, “It is important that within the region, we maintain relationships and help when one of our brothers and sisters are in need, especially when it’s a natural disaster, which is beyond our control, and unpredictable. This is what being a part of the Caribbean is all about. We hope to find ways to assist Prime Minister Gonsalves and the people of St. Vincent should the need arise.”
Gonsalves expressed gratitude for the contact made and expressed that he would let St. Maarten know of any needed support in the coming days.
