September 16th 2025
The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) is making an urgent plea for members of the public NOT TO TAMPER WITH, OR REMOVE ANY EQUIPMENT THAT IS USED TO MONITOR THE LA SOUFRIERE VOLCANO.
This call comes after the team from the Soufrière Monitoring Unit visited the site at Wallibou today (16th September, 2025) where a seismic station and rain gauge are installed. Two (2) large solar panels were stolen, wires connecting the power to the seismic station were cut, and two batteries were removed, the batteries were later found in the nearby bushes.
Without this equipment we cannot effectively monitor the volcano as we would like; this is a real concern as the Wallibou seismic station is one of the most reliable stations mainly due to the strategic location of the station on the lower flank of the volcano. This station is crucial to the network as it is generally the first station to pick up of any seismic events relevant to volcanic activity. The lack of data due to this vandalisation creates a significant gap within the seismic network.
We must remember that the La Soufrière is a very active volcano that must be closely monitored. Acts of vandalism places the population at risk of not receiving timely and early warning on activities at the volcano.
NEMO is urging anyone with information on the removal of the solar panels and damage to the station to contact the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force at 457-1211, the Chateaubelair Police Station at 458-2229 or call 911/999.
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