Seismic activity at the volcano overnight has again been dominated by another earthquake swarm. The swarm, which started at 2:58 pm yesterday afternoon, continued into the night until approximately midnight. The activity peaked at about 8 pm yesterday evening. A few further hybrid and volcano-tectonic earthquakes were recorded after midnight. Some small rockfalls have also been recorded by the seismic network, and low amplitude tremor has been recorded on the Gages seismic station for most of the night.
Overcast conditions with low cloud and mist over the volcano has prevented any good views during the early morning.
The scientific team at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory would like to re-iterate the following points. The volcano remains active and potentially dangerous. The lava dome is currently larger than ever before and shows signs of becoming more active. There are several areas on the eastern and south eastern face which appear very unstable and further pyroclastic flows are likely. Explosive activity similar to the September 17 event and possibly larger is still a distinct possibility. 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.