Government Information Service

The Volcanic Explanation
For The 24 Hour Period Ending 7 AM On Sunday March 02, 1997
A Presentation Of The Government Information Services
In Conjunction With The MVO.

The current alert level is AMBER


The activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has changed very little over the last 24 hours. There was another earthquake swarm recorded comprising volcano-tectonic earthquakes and hybrid events. There have been well over 200 signals in the reporting period.

There were a few rockfall signals as well and some caused some very small ash clouds which deposited ash on Chances Peak.

The summitt of the volcano has been pretty clear over the last 24 hours, it is clear that activity continues in the south east part of the dome as a new lobe is now present in this area. There have also been some rockfalls on the Galways Wall over the past few days.

It was announced yesterday that the highest part of the dome is now some 942 metres above sea level. Also yesterday the cracks on Chances Peak were measured, they continue to open.

Scientists warn that the dome is very large, steep and unstable and collapses will occur shortly. Residents are being warned to remain vigilent at all times.

Government Information Service