Volcanic activity overnight has been dominated by rockfalls from the dome, with minor earthquake activity. This is a marked departure from the pattern observed over the past two weeks during which small earthquake swarms occurred regularly with low level of rockfall activity.
The visibility is fair this morning, so early visual observations will be possible. From observations made late yesterday it was confirmed that rockfalls and ash production were occurring more frequently in the vicinity of the scar of January 20. Steam emission continued to occur near Castle Peak and also at the upper north-eastern section of the dome. All indications are that dome growth continues in the south-east of the crater, and it is very likely that further collapse will occur in the next few days. Residents are therefore urged to be alert at all times. At the moment zone E, which includes Corkhill and the airport, remains safe. The Tar River and upper Galways area are extremely dangerous, and should not be entered in any circumstances.