Volcanic Eruption, Comoros

Water supplies to more than 100,000 people in the Comoros islands (Indian Ocean) have been contaminated by the eruption of one of the world's largest active volcanoes. Mount Karthala sent clouds of ash and sparks flying, leaving the capital Moroni and other villages on the main island of Grande Comore covered in grey. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported concerns regarding the availability of potable water in the areas exposed to smoke and ashes as well as about the impact of pollution from volcanic debris on agriculture and livestock. Approximately 2,000 people fled their villages in the region of Bambao in the central part of the island, and have sought refuge in less exposed areas.