Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update

for the period 16:00 13 October to 07:00 14 October 1996


Activity at the volcano has continued at about the same level as yesterday. The small volcano-tectonic earthquakes which began at noon yesterday subsided overnight and were much less frequent after about 21:00. Three of these earthquakes were located, at depths of 3 to 4 km beneath the crater or slightly to the north of it. Several small to moderate-sized rockfall signals were also recorded overnight.

Low cloud has prevented any views of the crater area this morning.

MVO scientists stress that the volcano is still in a highly dangerous state, despite the current low level of seismic activity. The October 1 dome continues to grow at a rate which is similar to that immediately prior to the 17-18 September explosion. Further pyroclastic flows are likely, and could trigger another explosive eruption with very little warning. The Tar River and Long Ground areas are extremely dangerous, and people entering them face a high risk of death.

All residents of Montserrat are urged to exercise caution while visiting the evacuated zone and to become familiar with the new alert system and evacuation procedures.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory