Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Daily Report
Report for the period 5 p.m. 11 November
to 5 p.m. 12 November 1998


This morning at 06:07 there was the largest collapse of the dome since July. Pyroclastic flows went down Gages valley, the White River Valley and the Tar River Valley. The ash cloud reached 25,000 feet and ashfall was experienced throughout the island. The collapse was followed by vigorous ash venting - the ash from which blew to the West over Richmond Hill.

Pyroclastic flows down the Gages Valley reached the sea through Plymouth and other lobes spread into the Amersham area. Some burning was observed in the port area. Pyroclastic flows also reached the sea at the base of the Tar River Valley. Down the White River Valley the flows reached the old coastline and spread out on the new fan.

There were 26 rockfall signals , one long-period earthquake and 6 volcano-tectonic earthquakes recorded during this period.

After today's activity the dome is still highly unstable and further collapses can be anticipated. Residents of Montserrat are advised to keep listening to ZJB Radio Montserrat for information relating to any further developments in the state of the volcano.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory