Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Report
Report for the period 16:00 01 March
to 07:00 02 March 1997
The current alert level is AMBER


Activity at the volcano has continued at about the same level as yesterday. A swarm of hybrid and volcano-tectonic earthquakes which began at about 11:30 last night has continued up to the end of the reporting period. A few rockfall signals have also been recorded throughout the night.

Views of the dome from Whites last night confirmed that the main active area is to the south-east of the January dome, but also that there are several small glowing areas in the northern face of the dome. This morning, there is still some summit cloud on the volcano, and no clear views have yet been obtained.

The volcano remains active and potentially dangerous. The lava dome is currently larger than it ever has been before, with a steep eastern face, so further pyroclastic flows are likely. People entering zone C must remain alert, listen to Radio Montserrat and be ready to leave at short notice. Only essential visits should be made. The ash levels in Plymouth are hazardous, and it is extremely important to wear an ash mask when there is ash in the air.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory