Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 16 June, 1996


Volcanic activity at the Soufriere Hill Volcano has returned to the level that it was earlier in the week, after a notable increase in the number of small dome failure events yesterday. Small- to moderate-size rockfall signals has been recorded on seismic stations closest to the volcano. The largest rockfall signal occurred at about 05:00 pm on June 15. Low cloud cover prevented views of any ash plumes that may have been associated with this event. There were a smaller number of moderate-sized rockfall signals, several small long period and hybrid earthquakes during the period under review.

Low-amplitude broadband tremor was recorded between 05:05 and 06:00 pm yesterday and 01:10 to 02:15 am this morning.

Very low cloud continue to blanket the summit area and upper flanks of the volcano and therefore no views of 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