Volcanic activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been at a relatively low level, similar to yesterday. The activity is still dominated by small to moderate-sized rockfalls from the lava dome.
Small- to moderate- sized rockfall signals continue to dominate seismicity at the volcano. There were 51 of these events during this reporting period, an increase compared to yesterday. None of these were very large and there were no reports of ashfall. The very poor visibility prevented observation of any ash clouds that may have been associated with these events. There was one hybrid event today and no long period earthquakes. There have been brief periods of intermittent low-amplitude broadband tremor throughout the reporting period.
Very low cloud cover and generally overcast conditions prevented any views of the volcano most of the day. Partial views of the lower flanks of the dome were possible in the late morning but it was not possible to determine whether there were any new features.
EDM measurements were made today on the northern triangle; Windy Hill - St Georges - Farrells. No measurements could be made on the eastern triangle due to the poor weather conditions.
COSPEC measurements of the SO2 gas concentration in the volcanic plume were carried out along the coastal road between Kinsale and Lover's Lane. The measurements are currently being processed. The data from yesterday shows an SO2 flux of about 85 tonnes per day. This low flux is consistent with results obtained since the COSPEC programme was restarted.
Scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory continue to 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.