Government Information Service

The Volcanic Explanation
For The 24 Hour Period Ending 7 AM On Saturday February 15, 1997
A Presentation Of The Government Information Services
In Conjunction With The MVO.

The current alert level is ORANGE


The activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano remains at a low level. There were several small swarms of volcano - tectonic earthquakes followed by periods of volcanic tremor during the last 24 hours.

Rockfall signals were also at a very low level with less than 20 recorded overall.

There were a few small ashclouds which drifted towards the west but no recorded ashfalls. Clearer skies yesterday allowed scientists to inspect the Galways Wall where a new chute has developed in the southern part of the wall. Material is coming down this chute into the White River Valley.

Despite the low level of activity, the dome remains unstable and could collapse causing further pyroclastic flows. The alert level remains at ORANGE but this is currently under review.

Everyone is being urged to keep clear of the Long Ground, Tar River Valley and Upper Galways areas as they are extremely dangerous.

Government Information Service