Activity at the volcano overnight has remained at a high level with continued hybrid earthquake activity. The number of rockfalls have increased during the period.
Two hybrid swarms have occurred overnight. The first, occurred between about 4:13 pm and 9:37 pm, and included over 181 events. The second started at 1:21 am and ended at 4:08 am this morning. It involved over 56 events and was much less intense than the first swarm. Rockfall activity increased during the night with over 6 events being recorded.
No clear views of the dome was obtained during the night and early morning but a thick steam plume was visible over the summit from the MVO.
The activity of the volcano has changed and the 12 hour periodicity seen over the last few days has been broken. Views obtained yesterday of the crater suggest the hybrid earthquake recorded during the past 2 days is associated with rapid extrusion of new dome material. Although no explosions have occurred during this current phase of activity, there is no guarantee that further explosions will not take place. Pyroclastic flows have also occurred outside the most probable time period, and so at no time is it safe to enter the exclusion zone, including the Belham river valley.
There is ash in the air in the west of Montserrat and therefore dust masks should always be worn in these areas. Drivers should also be considerate whilst driving in ashy conditions. The Belham River valley is very dangerous and should not be entered. Access to the exclusion zone is completely restricted, and people should stay completely away from all the flanks of the volcano. Everyone should continue to stay alert, and listen to Radio Montserrat for any announcements.