In April 2021, the La Soufrière volcano experienced explosive eruptions that damaged critical services, infrastructure, and agriculture, affecting the entire population of the island of St Vincent.
The eruption also resulted in significant population displacement—approximately 22,400 people were evacuated from areas close to the volcano, many remaining in shelters for months.
The natural disaster compounded the effects of COVID-19, creating financing needs estimated at US$175 million, 23 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product in 2021.
