Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 16:00 22 February
to 07:00 23 February 1997
The current alert level is AMBER


Seismic activity at the volcano has continued at about the same level overnight. There was another earthquake swarm which started at 6:00 pm yesterday and ended at 04:48 am this morning. The swarm overnight was less intense than yesterday's but was of a similar type with volcano-tectonic earthquakes followed by repetitive hybrid events. A few small rockfalls signals were also recorded overnight.

Low level cloud over the volcano has prevented any views of the summit. There were no ashfalls reported overnight.

The current level of activity is likely to continue, with the volcano remaining active and potentially dangerous. The lava dome is currently larger than it ever has been before, with a steep eastern face, so further pyroclastic flows are likely. People entering zone C must remain alert, listen to Radio Montserrat and be ready to leave at short notice. Only essential visits should be made. The ash levels in Plymouth are hazardous, and it is very important to wear an ash mask when there is ash in the air.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory