Acidic Rainfall Likely From Increase In Sulphur Dioxide Concentration
The Department of Environment is requesting that members of the public cover all household water tanks and stay indoors in the event of rain.
17 Jan 2022 15:08
Images showing lightning around Hunga Tonga-Haa'pai volcanic eruptions. Photo: Tonga Meteorological Services
The Department of Environment has confirmed that Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) concentration in the atmosphere has increased overnight which could result in acidic rainfall over the Fiji group.
The Department has continually monitored the air quality in Fiji, following the volcanic eruption in Tonga over the weekend.
“Based on the satellite image data, the Department confirms that the Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) concentration in the atmosphere has increased overnight which could result in acidic rainfall over the Fiji group.
“As previously advised, the Department of Environment is requesting that members of the public cover all household water tanks and stay indoors in the event of rain due to the risk of acid rain,” a statement from the Department said.
While damage assessments are still underway, what is clear is the Tongan people’s resilience. We’ve offered PM Sovaleni Fiji’s support, together with Aust and NZ, for Tonga’s recovery 🇫🇯🇹🇴
Fiji’s air is safe to breathe, but please don’t go out in the rain due to slight acidity.
— Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum (@FijiAG) January 17, 2022
