Peru has declared an environmental emergency after announcing that 21 beaches on the Pacific coast have been contaminated by an oil spill at a refinery following surging waves caused by the eruption of the underwater volcano near Tonga Jan. 14-15.

Peruvian authorities say an Italian-flagged ship spilled 6,000 barrels in the Pacific in front of the La Pampilla refinery, prompting an ecological “disaster” that is being called the worst in recent history in the country.

The spill has affected an area rich in marine life and two natural protected areas. In recent days, dozens of environmental activists have launched a rescue effort for affected wild, collecting oil-stained or dead seabirds.

Authorities said the spill was contained within hours, but clean-up efforts continue. President Pedro Castillo said a committee will be formed to propose ways of dealing with the crisis, in keeping with national policies aimed at protecting the environment.

Prime Minister Mirtha Vásquez added that the refinery, Spain-based Repsol, has promised to deliver a cleaning schedule, to incorporate local fishermen in the cleanup on beaches and to deliver food baskets to affected families.

Vásquez said the United Nations will also provide a team of experts to help Peru deal with the spill. People are barred for now from going to the polluted beaches because of health concerns.

Repsol said Peruvian authorities had not provided a tsunami warning and that the ship was continuing to unload oil to the refinery when the waves hit.

Two women in Peru drowned after being swept away by strong waves following the Tonga eruption.