Between 6pm and 7.30pm yesterday evening there was a swarm of mainly small hybrid earthquakes followed by some low level tremor. The level of activity was then low until about 1am when another swarm began. This was less intense than the earlier swarm and lasted until about 3am. Since then the level of seismic activity has again been low with occasional rockfall signals. The level of activity is expected to rise again in the next few hours.
The tiltmeters on Chances Peak have shown a further cycle of inflation and deflation overnight suggesting that magma is still being supplied to the dome.
The pyroclastic flow and surge deposits will remain extremely hot for several days. Residents must not approach, handle or attempt to walk on the deposits because of the risk of severe burning.
As a result of the moderate ashfall there is likely to be heavy resuspension of ash in the air today especially if it does not rain. Residents and workers are urged to wear a dust mask.
Further pyroclastic flow activity is expected, and the high level of activity means that these flows could happen at any time and may be of significant size. The current area of activity makes Mosquito Ghaut the most likely pathway, but further flows in Gages, Tuitt's or Tar River are probable as well. The Belham River valley is also extremely dangerous and should not be entered. Access to Plymouth is completely restricted this morning. Zones A and B are extremely dangerous and nobody should go into these areas at all.
The airport is closed today and will remain closed until further notice.