Report for the period 16:00 27 August
to 07:00 28 August 1996
Activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano overnight continued at a slightly
lower level than that observed during the previous reporting period.
Small- to moderate-sized rockfalls from the flanks of the growing lava
dome, especially the eastern flank, were dominant on the seismic records.
Several small hybrid earthquakes were also recorded. The level of
broadband tremor was low.
Visibility during the early morning was excellent. Steam emission was observed from several areas of the dome and this had resulted in a small plume with the top at about 7,000 ft above sea level.
Extreme care should be exercised when driving in areas affected by recent ashfalls. Please do not forget to wear dust masks. Further rockfalls and pyroclastic flows will occur but all indications at the moment are that the pyroclastic flows will be confined to the Tar River Valley area. However, areas affected by associated ashfalls will obviously depend on the direction and strength of the wind at the time.
The Tar River Valley and surrounding areas are extremely hazardous and should not be entered under any circumstances.