Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
Report for the period 16:00 24 September
to 07:00 25 September 1996


Activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano has continued at a very low level overnight. A few small rockfalls and hybrid events were the only seismic signals recorded on most of the network. Low amplitude broadband tremor of variable amplitude, was present on the Gages seismometer for much of the reporting period. One mudflow signal was recorded at 06:34 on 25 September.

Low cloud cover over the summit of the volcano has prevented any clear views during the early morning. A late afternoon flight in helicopter yesterday afforded some brief views of the crater. There were no signs of any new material at the bottom of the scar apart from debris derived from rockfalls off the side walls of the scar. Abundant steaming and sulphur deposits were observed at the base of the scar feature.

The continued relative quiescence at the volcano is unlikely to last very long, and residents of areas severely affected by ash are reminded that now would be a good opportunity to clear roofs of ash build-up. Scientists remind all visitors to the unsafe zone that they should carry a transistor radio and have a rapid means of evacuation should the situation at the volcano change suddenly.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory