Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 6 pm 4 November
to 7 am 5 November 1997


The pattern of seismicity which was reported during the last bulletin of November 4th. continued largely unabated throughout the night .The activity was dominated by a semi-continous swarm of hybrid earthquakes separated by short periods of tremor. Towards the end of this reporting period there were no signs of a declining intensity of the swarm however fewer of the larger events were being recorded . The current swarm of earthquakes, though impressive ,is not as intense as those which preceded the emission of the pyroclastic flows of the 4th.November when the events were larger and more closely spaced.

The possibility of more pyroclastic flows into any of the ghauts around the volcano remains a very real threat to these areas and consequently residents should avoid these areas. For the time being the areas of Friths, Old Town and Salem are considered to be too exposed to any pyroclastic flow which may escape into the Belham Valley. Residents of these areas are urged to comply with the restrictions which are currently being enforced.

In the event of further explosions, ash may fall on the inhabited Northern Zone depending on the direction of the prevailing winds at the time of the eruption. Under these conditions residents must remember to stay indoors in a shelter with a strong roof. Those who have to be outdoors must wear a dust mask when there is ash in the air. Everyone is advised to keep listening to Radio Montserrat for any new information.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory