Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 12 July, 1996


Since 4:00 p.m. yesterday there has been less activity at the volcano than during the preceding reporting period. Several small and a few moderate sized rockfalls were recorded. A few long-period and hybrid earthquakes were also noted. No additional pyroclastic flows had occurred. The largest rockfall event occurred at 20:05 p.m. last night. The signal that it generated was more pronounced on the eastern seismic station recorders. Broadband seismic tremor was at a low level throughout the night and early morning.

Visibility was poor yesterday evening and this morning, with the volcano obscured by clouds.

Dome growth is continuing and therefore the threats posed by the Soufriere Hills Volcano continue at the same or a greater level as over the past several months. The Tar River and Long Ground areas to the east and the upper Fort Ghaut, Gages Village and Upper Amersham areas to the west are still extremely hazardous. People should not enter these areas under any circumstances because they put themselves and others at direct risk of very serious injury or death. People are urged to keep visits to the evacuated zone to a minimum.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory