Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 4 pm 13 June
to 7 am 14 June 1997
The current alert level is ORANGE


The level of rockfall and pyroclastic flow activity was low yesterday afternoon and early evening but began to increase at about 10pm last night. Since then there have been regular rockfalls and small pyroclastic flows. Rockfalls have been observed in Tuitt's Ghaut this morning and there have been several small pyroclastic flows in the Tar River valley.

Much of the volcano is again covered by cloud this morning but Tuitt's Ghaut and the Tar River valley are clearly visible from the airport.

The level of seismic activity has been low overnight with only a few small long period events.

Further pyroclastic flows are expected, and it is possible that the hot pyroclastic flows and surges could travel even further than before. The flows may occur with no warning, they move extremely fast and cannot be outrun. The revised zones A and B, which include Tuitt's, Bramble, Bethel, Spanish Point, Farms, Harris and Trants, are extremely dangerous and the authorities and MVO strongly advise that nobody should go into this area at all. The public are reminded that while Bramble Airport remains operational for the time being, it is open only for essential travel purposes, and a checkpoint is in place to ensure that only bona fide travellers and those with essential business can visit the airport.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory