Caribbean officials have launched a project to monitor volcanic gases on the island of St. Lucia and their impact on people and the environment.
The University of The West Indies Seismic Research Center will help measure sulfur dioxide levels in the air and arsenic levels in the water in the town of Soufriere and nearby areas that are popular with tourists. The Soufriere Volcanic Center on St. Lucia's western region features hot springs and mud baths.
University officials said Tuesday that the eight-month project was launched because of concerns about the possible effects of volcanic gases on children, the elderly and asthmatics.
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