Activity at the volcano has been at a very low level today. Continuous cloud on the top of the volcano has prevented any visual observations. Small ash clouds from the rockfalls have been intermittently observed as they were carried westward by the prevailing winds. In general it appears that the dome is continuing to grow at a low rate.
Seismic activity at the volcano has been dominated by rockfall signals. Ten (10) rockfalls were recorded by the network today, a slight increase on the number recorded yesterday. One small avalanche was seen over Galway's Wall. Along with these, 8 hybrid events were recorded. Low amplitude tremor on the Gages station began at approximately 11:00 am and is still continuing at time of writing. A regional earthquake was recorded at 8:02 pm yesterday (March 15th).
No EDM or GPS surveys were carried out today.
COSPEC measurements were carried out yesterday (March 15th) show that the average sulphur dioxide flux is 341 tonnes per day.
During the last few days the eastern slope of the dome continues to be unstable. Given that the dome is now large and continuing to grow, albeit slowly at the moment, a large collapse and pyroclastic flows could happen with little warning. The increase in activity from the Galway's Wall makes this area particularly hazardous, especially if there is a recurrence of the earthquake swarms. It is dangerous to spend the night in evacuated areas, because the situation could worsen rapidly over a period of a few hours. People entering Zone C are reminded to remain alert at all times, and spend the minimum possible time in the evacuated zone. The Tar River Valley and the upper Galway's area are very dangerous and should not be entered at any time.