Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 29 June, 1996


The Seismic recorders at the MVO displayed no marked changes in seismicity level or pattern during the past twelve hours. Small to moderate sized rockfalls from the dome continued to be the most prominent events. The largest of these events occurred at 20:16 pm on June 28 and 01:39 am on June 29. Both events had durations in excess of one minute and saturated the records of the closest seismic stations. All other rockfall signals were notably smaller in amplitude and duration. The occurrence of long period and hybrid earthquakes were at a low level throughout the update period. Venting also appeared to have been at a low level.

Visibility remained very poor during the daylight hours of the update period. Only views of the lower flanks of the volcano have been possible.

It appears therefore, that the volcano maintained its low level of activity for another twelve hours. Despite this, it remains unstable and therefore continues to threaten people and property on both the eastern and upper western flanks. 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 still extremely hazardous. The road between Lee's Estate and Ryner's 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 death. Visits to the rest of the evacuated zone should be kept to an absolute minimum.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory