Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 16:00 26 January
to 07:00 27 January 1997
The current alert level is ORANGE


The level of volcanic activity has been very low for most of the reporting period, with one swarm of volcano-tectonic earthquakes and some minor rockfall activity. The swarm of earthquakes lasted from 12:28 am to 3:30 am. During the swarm the level of rockfall activity increased and was maintained even after the earthquakes had stopped. These rockfall signals could have resulted from further landslide activity near the Galways sector of the Crater but this could not be confirmed because the eastern seismograph link has been out of order overnight.

The visibility is poor this morning so it is unlikely that any early visual observations will be possible. When last seen from Bethel yesterday there was a high level of steam emission occurring in the vicinity of the base of Castle Peak and also at the upper north-eastern section of the dome.

All indications are that dome growth continues in the south-east of the crater, and it is very likely that further collapse will occur in the next few days. Residents are therefore urged to be alert at all times. At the moment zone E, which includes Corkhill and the airport, remains safe. The Tar River and upper Galways area are extremely dangerous, and should not be entered in any circumstances.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory