Montserrat Today
For Friday March 09, 1998
Presented by the Information Unit of the
Government of Montserrat's Emergency Department
A newsletter normally published three times weekly for E mail subscribers by the Emergency Dept, Governor's Office.
THE VOLCANIC EXPLANATION:
Over the last few days the level of activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been low. There were just a few earthquake and rockfall signals these mainly from the Galways side of the dome.
The dome has been clearly visible for the last few days and there is still a prominent spine on the top of the dome. The excellent visibility has allowed scientists to make some GPS measurements over the last few days.
Ash monitoring equipment is currently being maintained due to the very low levels of ash presently on island.
FIRE AT SHELTERS:
There was a fire at three newly constructed wooden shelters at Manjack on Sunday. The fire was spread by strong winds and firemen could only save the two adjacent shelters.
A total of 35 persons were made homeless and lost all their belongings. The persons were offered shelter at Brades School and the next morning were each offered $1000 by Government to help with their immediate needs.
The Montserrat and Antigua branches of the Red Cross were quick to open appeals and gave offers of help to the fire victims.
DISASTER EXPERTS TO VISIT:
As part of CDERA's Volcanic Contingency Planning Workshop being held in Antigua this week, disaster planners from throughout the region will visit Montserrat on March 11th to see for themselves the response to the volcano.
The Emergency Dept has put a programme together for the group which includes various visits in the northern zone of the island.
The Emergency Dept also assisted with speakers to the workshop which is being held at the Cortsland Hotel in St John's.
More information next week...................................