Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 15 June, 1996


A few notable ash emissions have occurred at the volcano since 04:00 hours yesterday. The most severe emissions occurred between 04:oo and 06:00 pm on June 14 during heavy rainfall which is believed to have significant influence on their generation. Signals recorded at 16:25 and 17:12 had associated plumes which travelled north-west. Two other emissions, at 3:25 am and 5:20 am this morning also produced clouds which travelled in similar directions and material fell in the Old Towne area. Several small mudflow signals were also recorded.

Apart from the slight proliferation in ash producing events, the pattern of seismicity generally remained the same. The usual rockfalls and long period earthquakes continued to occur with intermittent low amplitude broadband tremor in the background.

Very low cloud continue to blanket the summit area and upper flanks of the volcano and therefore no views into the crater area have been possible.

The Soufriere Hills volcano remains highly dangerous to people and property on both the eastern and upper western flanks . Dome failure which can occur with little or no warning may generate deadly ash flows. These flows are easily channelled down the ghauts that lead into English's Crater. The Tar River, Long Ground and Whites areas to the east and upper Fort Ghaut, Gages Village and Upper Amersham areas to the west are all now extremely dangerous. The road between Lee's Estate and Ryners Village remains closed. People should not enter these areas under any circumstances. If they do, they put themselves and others at direct risk of very serious injury or horrible death. Visits to the other evacuated zones should be kept to an absolute minimum.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory