Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 16:00 15 March
to 07:00 16 March 1997
The current alert level is AMBER


Seismic activity at the volcano overnight has been very quiet for most of the reporting period. Rockfall signals are currently the dominant form of seismicity. These are generally only small but a few larger ones have occurred through the night. It is most likely that these originated from the active eastern and south-eastern areas of the dome. Two small VT earthquakes have also been recorded by the network.

Low cloud on the top of the volcano is currently hampering views of the dome and crater.

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. There are several areas on the eastern and south eastern face which appear very unstable and further pyroclastic flows are likely. It also seems likely that there will be further pyroclastic flows from the dome above Galway's Wall. 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.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory