Suspension due to ash fall from the La Soufrière volcano in St Vincent and the Grenadines

Barbados has suspended with immediate effect its COVID-19 vaccination programme.

The Mia Mottley administration, which made the announcement, advised that all COVID-19 vaccinations have been temporarily suspended until further notice, due to the ash fall from La Soufrière volcano in St Vincent and the Grenadines, which has been affecting Barbados.

Co-coordinator of Barbados COVID-19 National Vaccination Programme, Major David Clarke, said the Immunization Unit of the Ministry of Health and Wellness would inform people with appointments as to when the administration of first doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine would resume.

The Ministry thanks members of the public for their understanding and co-operation. In the meantime, the Director of Barbados’ Meteorological Services, Sabu Best announced a short while ago that another plume of ash will affect Barbados soon.

Volcanic ash and small craft warning remains in effect

A volcanic ash and small craft warnings remain in effect for the country. The Met Service, which will provide an update later today, reported earlier that varying intensities of volcanic ash from La Soufrière Volcano in St Vincent continues to affect the island.

A small-craft warning is issued when reduced visibility (less than 5 km) is affecting the marine area. Satellite imagery continues to show ash plumes traveling eastward towards Barbados in varying concentrations.

According to the Met Service, “Given the highly active nature of the La Soufriere Volcano, it is likely that further eruptions will occur, and depending on the intensity of the ash plume and wind direction, Barbados may continue to experience reduced visibility and further ash deposits. Residents, visitors, and marine users must take action as ashfall will cause a significant reduction in visibility and possible respiratory problems for persons who experience difficulty in breathing.”

People with respiratory issues or allergies must travel with or have close at hand, all prescribed relevant medications in case of an emergency. Marine users should stay in port, particularly if GPS is not in use on vessels.

The public has been advised to closely monitor the forecast for critical updates and check that animals have enough clean food and water. The Met Office said that animals should be protected from heavy ash fall.