Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 6 pm 28 October
to 7 am 29 October 1997


The pattern of seismicity with hybrid swarms from the volcano has continued overnight. There have been two hybrid swarms, between 5:30 and 8:00pm last night and between 12:30 and 3:30 this morning. Both earthquake swarms were of similar intensity. Some moderate rockfall signals have also been recorded between the hybrid swarms which are probably related to new material being shed from the rapidly growing dome which first emerged on October 22.

Larger rockfalls and pyroclastic flows associated with dome growth can be expected soon. More explosions could occur at any time, they may be individual events or another prolonged sequence may begin. Friths, Old Towne and Salem are not safe with the activity in its current state. Anyone remaining in these areas is strongly urged to move out of the exclusion zone.

There is still ash on the roads and drivers are reminded to be cautious and courteous. The wearing of ash masks is recommended in ashy conditions, especially when cleaning areas with very fine ash particles. Everyone is advised to keep listening to Radio Montserrat for information on the activity.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory