The level of seismic activity at the volcano has decreased significantly during the past 24 hours. The volcano-tectonic earthquakes have stopped and only a few small rockfall signals were recorded. Visibility was moderate for most of the day and some good views were obtained of the crater.
The volcano-tectonic earthquake swarm which began on 03 November ended at 21:32 last night. Only eight volcano-tectonic earthquakes were recorded during the period. Most of these events occurred last night and were located at shallow depths beneath the crater. Four small rockfall signals were also recorded during the period. Intermittent tremor was recorded on the Gages seismic station throughout the period.
The viewing conditions were variable for most of the period with some clear views obtained of the crater. No major changes were observed on the dome. The small spine on top of the October 1 dome does not appear to have grown significantly since yesterday. The eastern face of the dome remains unchanged and mostly inactive. One moderate-sized rockfall, which produced a small ash cloud, was observed from this area late yesterday afternoon.
EDM measurements were completed today on radial lines on the western flank of the volcano. The line lengths between Upper and Lower Amersham shortened by 1mm since November 1. while those between Lower Amersham and Chances Peak steps have lengthened by 5mm during the same period. These lines continue to show no consistent trends.
A GPS survey was made today of some parts of the western network. The results are not available yet.
The helicopter was used to conduct COSPEC measurements this morning. The results from the traverses are not yet available.
The scientific team at the MVO remains highly concerned about the high level of seismic activity during the past few days. However, the scientists cannot be sure that the earthquake swarms will lead to a potentially dangerous volcanic explosion in the near future. We advise that the alert level remains at Orange and that it may be a few days before the alert level can move down again. We stress that the volcano is still in a very dangerous state and that all residents should follow the recommendations laid out in the alert procedures, and listen to Radio Montserrat.