A state of emergency has been declared in the CNMI following the eruption of an active submarine volcano south of Sarigan.
Governor Benigno Fitial declared the island of Sarigan as unsafe for human habitation and restricted all travel to the island with exception of scientific expeditions.
The Emergency Management Office, says due to continuing volcanic activity south of Sarigan, there is a continuing threat of adverse impact in the waters and air space south of the island.
The U.S. Geological Survey's report yesterday stated that an eruption cloud up to 40,000 feet appeared to be over or near Anatahan volcano in the satellite image.
It says observers on Sarigan reported hearing a loud explosion from the south, and shortly thereafter receiving ash fall.
