Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 06 June, 1996


Activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been at the same level as yesterday, with perhaps a slight increase in the number of rockfall signals recorded. Seismicity continues to be dominated by small- to moderate- sized rockfall signals. The largest of these occurred at 14:53 yesterday evening. Low-amplitude broadband tremor has increased overnight possibly due to heavy downpours of rain which fell throughout the night. There was one period of continuous high frequency, low-amplitude tremor recorded on the Gages seismic station from 21:34 to 22:00 on 5 June, apart from this tremor has been intermittent. There were a few long period earthquakes and hybrid events during the night.

Very low cloud cover and generally overcast conditions prevented clear views of the summit of the volcano early this morning.

Scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory view the situation at the Soufriere Hills Volcano with grave concern. Visits to the evacuated zone should be kept to a minimum. The Tar River, Long Ground and Whites areas are extremely dangerous due to the frequent occurrence of pyroclastic flows in the Tar River valley. People should not enter these areas under any circumstances. If they do, they put themselves at direct risk of serious injury or death.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory