The level of seismic activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano has increased again overnight, and reached it's highest level for two days at about 04:00. The activity has decreased slightly since then, but still remains elevated when compared with yesterday's levels. Small, repetitive hybrid earthquakes continue at a rate of about one earthquake per minute. In addition, several rockfall and small explosion signals were recorded overnight. An explosion signal at 04:36 was the strongest recorded during the last three days. The amount of tremor recorded at the Gages seismic station has increased since 04:00.
At first light viewing conditions were generally poor because of low cloud. However, brief sightings from the Observatory indicate that major dome growth has occurred over the last 36 hours, and a substantial part of the central dome has risen by approximately 200 ft. Further measurements of this new growth will be made when conditions permit. Vigorous steaming continues from the northeast of the dome.
The volcano remains extremely active, with continued dome growth at a high rate. The MVO scientists are highly concerned by the current activity, and urge that visits to the evacuated zone are kept to a minimum. The Tar River, Long Ground and Whites areas are extremely dangerous, and should not be entered under any circumstances.