Government Information Service

The Volcanic Explanation
For The 24 Hour Period Ending 7 AM On Thursday April 17, 1997
A Presentation Of The Government Information Services
In Conjunction With The MVO.

The current alert level is ORANGE


Activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been at a low level during the past 24 hours. There have been small to moderate sized rockfalls and pyroclastic flows.

Yesterday (Wednesday) there were 7 long period events and 17 rockfalls. One of the rockfalls followed a long period earthquake.

Visibility was good yesterday (Thursday) Several ashclouds were blown north and there were some light ash falls. The plume of ash extended as far as Nevis. Visibility was poor today (Thursday) with low cloud cover over the crater.

The rockfalls are going into the White River valley and are coming from the active face which is above the Galway's Wall. Dome growth is expected to continue above Galway's Wall. Extensive pyroclastic flows in the White River Valley are expected with another dome collapse within the next week.

The volcano remains active and dangerous, with a very large dome which could collapse at any time. People should exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant at all times. Ash levels are high and everyone is urged to wear their dust masks in ashy areas.

Government Information Service