The October 1st dome (dome # 2) has been very active over the last 24 hours. The activity was an increase over the past reporting period with many pyroclastic flows reaching as far as the Tar River Estate House. There was once again pulsing activity with peaks of activity at about midnight and again early this morning (Friday).
Scientists feel that a major collapse of the dome could happen at any time. Both yesterday and this morning the dome has been visible and the pyroclastic flows easily seen. Ashclouds have reached to a height of about 6500 feet and have been blowing westwards in the prevailing wind.
The volume of the dome is estimated at 30 million cubic metres which is about the size it was prior to previous collapses.
The seismic activity is dominated by rockfall and pyroclastic flow activity and there have been over 250 such signals in the last 24 hours. In addition there were over 40 hybrid, 8 long period and several volcano-tectonic earthquakes recorded in the same period.
COSPEC measurements were made on Thursday and gave results of 1130 tonnes per day of sulphur dioxide. These are increased amounts and are consistent with an imminent collapse of the dome.
The alert remains at ORANGE, however residents are being urged to listen to updates on ZJB Radio. The W.H. Bramble Airport remains open.
Government Information Service