The level of activity increased slightly last night, with rockfalls that produced some ash. There was one volcano-tectonic earthquake swarm that lasted from 6:50 pm to 20:50 pm, and contained about 20 earthquakes. This swarm was similar to the swarms that have occurred at regular intervals in the past few days. After the earthquake swarm, there was an episode of tremor and then some rockfall activity at about 10:20 pm.
Preliminary reports suggest that the ash was carried mainly to the north and west. Light ash fall mixed with rain was reported from Corkhill, Salem and Olde Towne. No ash fell at the airport.
The south-eastern face of the dome is unstable, and expected to collapse soon, causing pyroclastic flows in the Tar River Valley. The wind is from the south this morning, and so any ash clouds could drift over the safe zone. Residents are reminded to wear ash masks if there is ash in the air. Further crumbling of the Galway's Wall is also likely. The Tar River and upper Galway's areas are extremely dangerous, and should not be entered under any circumstances. Zone E, which includes Corkhill and the airport, remains safe at this time.