Despite increased seismic activities at an underwater volcano off the coast of Grenada, authorities have said there is no significant threat to coastal regions of that island or nearby countries.
On Thursday morning an Orange Alert was issued following “strong and continuing signals” on instruments monitoring the volcano, Kick ’em Jenny.
An Orange Alert means there is “highly elevated level seismic and/or fumarolic activity or other unusual activity.”
The alert also means that an eruption may begin with less than 24-hours notice.
Lloyd Lynch, researcher at the Trinidad-based Seismic Research Centre told disaster management officials in Grenada on Thursday afternoon that minor eruptions can be expected before the system goes back to sleep.
However, he pointed out, that the volcano remains well below the surface, which cancels out any threat of a major tsunami.
Presently the volcano is most dangerous for ships and boats since the gases released by Kick ‘em Jenny can lower the density of the water causing them to sink even if it is not erupting.
Meanwhile, Acting Prime Minister of Grenada, Elvin Nimrod, has called on his fellow Grenadians to remain calm.
“There is no need to panic and people should go about their daily lives as normal,” he said.
Here in Dominica officials said the volcano is being closely monitored.
“We are in a state of monitoring, there is no need for panic there is no need for anxiety,” National Disaster Coordinator, Don Corriette said. “The situation as we are being advised by the Seismic Research Center states there is no danger except for shipping and aviation interest at the exclusive zone.”
He stated that the Office of Disaster Management will inform the public of any changes.
It’s head looks like a sea monster, horrible and ferocious. It looks as though it could cause much damage. Let us hope it returns to its sleep forever.