The level of activity at the volcano has increased slightly during the last 24 hours, with an episode of moderate-amplitude volcanic tremor this afternoon. Several hot rockfalls from the dome were observed at the same time as the tremor.
A swarm of volcano-tectonic and hybrid earthquakes occurred between 7:12 am and 12:16 pm today, with a total of 6 VTs and 15 hybrids recorded during the period. This swarm was smaller than other recent swarms. The tremor episode lasted from 2 pm to 3:30 pm, and had an amplitude similar to the episodes recorded earlier in the month. There were also 29 rockfall signals.
The summit of the volcano was visible this afternoon and good views of the dome were possible. During the tremor episode several rockfalls were observed, from the south-east, east and north faces of the dome. Many of these rockfalls were clearly composed of hot material, and resulted in small, convective ash clouds.
The volcano remains active and potentially dangerous. The dome is currently larger than ever before, and shows signs of becoming more active. The situation could worsen over a period of a few hours, and so it is dangerous to spend the night in the evacuated areas. People entering Zone C are reminded to remain alert at all times, and spend the minimum possible time in the evacuated zone. The ash levels in Plymouth can be hazardous, and so it is essential to wear a mask when there is ash in the air. The Tar River Valley and the upper Galway's area are very dangerous and should not be entered at any time.