There has been moderate pyroclastic flow activity in the Tar River valley this morning.
The level of activity started to increase at about 5:10 am, and by 6 am there were continuous moderate pyroclastic flows down Tar River. The flows reached to within 1 km of the delta, and were observed from the airport. A small rockfall was seen at the top of Tuitt's Ghaut, but no other activity has occurred in Mosquito and Tuitt's Ghauts or in the Gages valley. The flows generated a moderate ash cloud that was blown to the west.
The pyroclastic flows have declined in energy in the last 30 minutes, although small flows continue. Also, several large blocks of lava have tumbled down the eastern face.
Further pyroclastic flows and surges could travel into Gages valley, Mosquito Ghaut, Tuitt's Ghaut or the Tar River valley at any time. Access to Plymouth is restricted for the time being. Zones A and B, which include Tuitt's, Bramble, Bethel, Spanish Point, Farms, Harris and Trants, are extremely dangerous and nobody should go into this area at all.
Bramble Airport remains operational, but the public are reminded that it is open only for essential travel purposes.