Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 6 pm 17 December
to 7 am 18 December 1997


Seismic activity overnight has been slightly elevated, with frequent small rockfall signals, and some hybrid earthquakes. Active growth continues high on the Galways sector of the dome, producing a persisting plume of light ash and steam. Following the rain yesterday morning, the wind shifted to the northwest and during the afternoon and evening some light ash fell on island between Salem and St Peters. There were also reports of smells of sulphur, and of sulphuretted rain causing damage to foliage. These effects are related to the active growth of the dome. This growth could switch quickly to other parts of the dome with little or no notice and pyroclastic flows could occur down any of the ghauts on the volcano. Everyone is advised to listen to Radio Montserrat for any new information.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory