The school management of Eliki Memorial School in Talaulia, Kadavu has decided to close the school today as they are concerned about the safety of the students and staff following the landslides on Mount Washington, the eruptions underwater, and the continuing aftershocks following the earthquake on Sunday.
The school management has advised the Mineral Resources Department about their decision after the advisory issued by the National Disaster Management Office.
The NDMO is now awaiting a full on-the-ground report from the Provincial Administrator Kadavu tonight before making a full safety and security assessment for the villages located at the foot of Mount Washington.
Possible underwater volcanic eruptions and landslides on Mount Washington resulted in NDMO issuing an advisory to the villages close to Mount Washington to refrain from diving in their fishing grounds or avoid movement along the mountain.
Fijivillage has also received reports from the ground of aftershocks being felt by villagers in the area.
Assistant Roko Tui Kadavu, Ilaitia Raloa says that he has been in contact with the villagers of Lomati, and they are also confused about whether they should move from the area.
The closest village to Mount Washington is Nabukelevu I Ra which is 6 kilometres from the mountain.
The villagers have also been advised not to go to the landslide site.
[Photo: Kaiviti Diver]
The NDMO also warns that continuous tremors or future eruptions may make these areas more hazardous. Villagers including Nabukelevu I Ra, Lomati, Talaulia, and the nearby villagers are advised to exercise caution.
The public are advised to remain alert and ensure that any slight damage to their houses etc should be monitored.
The NDMO had confirmed that they received reports that there are some explosions underwater.
This may be from underwater volcanic eruptions and assessments will be carried out soon.
The Mineral Resources Department says the earthquake occurred 26 kilometres North North West of Vunisea, Kadavu at about 8.30am Sunday.
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