The Guam Environmental Protection Agency (Guam EPA) in conjunction with Guam Homeland Security and Office of Civil Defense today issued a volcanic smog "vog" advisory for Guam.
The advisory will be in place for 24 hours. Residents with heart or respiratory ailments are advised to stay indoors and reduce physical exertion and outdoor activity while the advisory is in effect. Anyone suffering from respiratory illness should seek appropriate medical advice if they are affected by the reduced quality of outdoor air.
North winds are carrying the vog to Guam from the Anatahan Volcano in the Northern Marianas Islands. The vog is noxious sulfur dioxide gas mixed with other volcanic pollutants. The vog is expected to continue throughout today and into Saturday when North East winds increase.
Vog may aggravate preexisting respiratory ailments. Physical symptoms may include headaches, breathing difficulties, increased susceptibility to respiratory ailments, watery eyes, sore throat, flu-like symptoms and a general lack of energy.
Guam EPA is closely monitoring air conditions across the island and is working with the National Weather Service (NWS) to provide the latest information on the vog's impact to Guam.
For further information about the air quality in the affected areas, contact Tammy Anderson at 475-1663 or 688-9800.
