Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 25 July, 1996


Activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano during the period of this update has been at about the same relatively high level as during the previous 24 hours. Most of the reporting period was dominated by small- to moderate-sized rockfalls from the growing lava dome. More than 100 small volcano-tectonic earthquakes were recorded during the period since 16:00 on 24 July. However, most of these VTs occurred in a burst of activity which started around 03:30 this morning. Preliminary examination of these events suggests that their locations are similar to those recorded during the past several days. A few small long-period and hybrid events were also recorded. Broadband tremor was intermittent and was generally at a lower level than during the past several days.

Visibility during the early morning period was very poor because of low cloud cover and rain.

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