Once again the activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been relatively quiet over the last 24 hours. There has been some long period earthquakes some of which triggered rockfalls. In all there were over 50 rockfall signals in the reporting period. Some of the rockfalls turned into very small pyroclastic flows into the upper reaches of the White River Valley.
Low cloud cover continues so there are no views of the dome and the usual EDM measurements have been hampered by swirling ash being blown by the fairly strong winds. However, the scientists at the MVO believe that the dome continues to grow at a steady, moderate rate.
The GPS long occupation programme continues and the equipment has been moved to the Hermitage Estate. Results from earlier in the week are still being processed and eventually this will assist scientists in determining whether or not there has been long term deformation of Montserrat's mountains.
Ash falls of late have been very slight, but strong winds are blowing the ash around. Everyone entering areas with ash are being urged to wear their dust masks to protect their health.Ash masks are distributed free of charge from Public Health Clinics.
The alert level remains at AMBER and this means that there can be short day time visits to areas in the unsafe zone apart from the "no go" Zone A. However everyone making such visits should have a rapid means of exit and remain vigilant by staying tuned to ZJB radio.
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