Democratic Republic of Congo – Volcanic eruption, update

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 06:29:01 +02:00

The number of earthquakes detected in the area of Nyiragongo volcano and the deformation rates have decreased slightly since 29 May 2021. However, seismic activity and ground deformation continue to indicate the presence of magma under the urban area of Goma with an extension under Lake Kivu.
An estimated 415,700 people have been displaced across several localities in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and across the border in Rwanda.
Authorities and humanitarian organisations are providing help for those most affected. The rehabilitation of the damaged water supply system in Goma is ongoing. The risk of a cholera outbreak remains. Twelve suspected cholera cases were reported in the health centre of Saké between 27 and 29 May. Saké hosts more than 56,000 displaced persons and most suspected cholera cases are among them.
The Copernicus Emergency Mapping Service (EMSR513) was activated on 23 May and seven maps have been produced so far.
On 29 May, the European Commission allocated EUR 2 million in emergency humanitarian funding for those affected by the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo.

Thu, 27 May 2021 06:38:09 +02:00

The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) announced an obligatory evacuation of parts of the city of Goma as a preventive measure in case of a second eruption of nearby Mount Nyiragongo. The volcano erupted on 22-23 May 2021. The lava stream destroyed four villages and parts of Goma’s water infrastructure. Seismic activities continue. The Rubavu district in Rwanda is also affected.
Today’s evacuation announcement caused an exodus of tens of thousands of people. Around 20,000 became homeless on 22 May. 31 people reportedly died, while 40 are missing. UNICEF reported hundreds of children initially separated from their families. 74 have been put into foster care or transit centres, where they receive psychosocial support. Cholera is a risk because of the displacement and the partial destruction of water infrastructure.
The Government is leading the response and activated a contingency plan, including shelter, water supply, tracing of children and the re-opening of Goma airport as priorities. The Copernicus Emergency Mapping Service (EMSR513) was activated to support the damage assessment.