Activity at the volcano overnight has remained at a high level with continued hybrid earthquake activity.
Two hybrid swarms have occurred overnight. The first, between about 11 pm and 3 am, was less intense than the swarms experienced yesterday. The second started at 6 am and is still ongoing at the time of reporting. No explosion occurred at the end of the earlier swarm.
The activity of the volcano appears to be changing. The 12 hour periodicity seen over the last few days seems to be broken, and although no explosions have occurred for the past 24 hours, there is no guarantee that further explosions will not take place, and these may be more intense than those already experienced. Pyroclastic flows have also occurred outside the most probable time period, and so at no time is it safe to enter the exclusion zone, including the Belham river valley.
There is ash in the air in the west of Montserrat and therefore dust masks should always be worn in these areas. Drivers should also be considerate whilst driving in ashy conditions. The Belham River valley is very dangerous and should not be entered. Access to the exclusion zone is completely restricted, and people should stay completely away from all the flanks of the volcano. Everyone should continue to stay alert, and listen to Radio Montserrat for any announcements.