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Volcanic haze, ashfall advisories cancelled
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Posted on Jan 20 2005
Due to a change in wind directions, the volcanic haze and ash health advisories for Saipan and Tinian were cancelled effective yesterday.
In a joint statement issued at 5:20pm yesterday, the Emergency Management Office, Department of Public Health and the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, said the slight change in wind direction to north-northeast merited the advisories’ cancellation.
DPH, however, cautioned CNMI residents to take a few precautions:
* If the water source is contaminated or has an acid taste or smell, do not consume the water. To purify water, add 10 drops of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water and let it stand for 30 minutes, or boil water for 5 minutes.
* Residents are encouraged to consume bottled water until their alternate source of drinking water has been flushed and cleared of all volcanic debris.
* Affected water is safe for cleaning vegetables and fruits. The ash will not harm fruits or vegetables, but wash them thoroughly.
* Fruits and vegetables are not affected by small amounts of ash-fall. Remember to wash all fruits and vegetables before consuming them.
* Affected water is safe for washing clothes. Use extra detergent in your washer.
* Affected water is safe for showering.
* Affected water is safe for flushing toilets.
DPH and EMO said they will continue to closely monitor the movement of ash from the volcano at Anatahan and will inform the public of any changes.
Both said the Commonwealth Health Center is ready for any emergency assistance that might be needed. Contact CHC at 234-8950, Tinian Health Center at 433-9333/9263/9233, and Rota Health Center at 532-9461/2/3.
