Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 16:00 03 March
to 07:00 04 March 1997
The current alert level is AMBER


The level of activity at the volcano has been very low, with only a few earthquakes and some rockfall signals recorded.

A swarm of hybrid and volcano-tectonic earthquakes began at about 4:01 this morning and has continued up to the end of the reporting period. This swarm has thus far been of very low intensity consisting mainly of volcano-tectonic events. A seismic signal usually associated with flash flooding in Fort Ghaut was recorded by the Gages station at 3:45 am today. A few rockfall signals have also been recorded throughout the night.

Early morning rain has obscured the volcano and no views were obtained early today.

The volcano remains active and potentially dangerous. The lava dome is currently larger than ever 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 extremely important to wear an ash mask when there is ash in the air.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory