There have been one more explosion since 4 o'clock yesterday. At about midnight a team of scientific observers saw some incandescent glowing on the dome from the Friths ,and a roaring sound could be heard coming from the volcano which coincided with an increase in the tremor signals recorded for that period , indicating increased venting. Otherwise there has been little seismicity recorded.
The explosion occurred at 3:48 this morning, and it was the 41st explosion since this sequence started on the 22nd of September. Because of the darkness it was not possible to give a definite gauge the height and drift of the ash plume., but it was estimated by an observer from the MVO to be at about 15,000ft and drifted to the north-west.. Very light ashfall was recorded in the Salem, Old Towne, Olveston, Woodlands and St Peters areas.
Further explosions are expected and, although these will probably be similar in size to those experienced already, longer explosions fuelling more vigorous pyroclastic flows are a distinct possibility. There has been no change in the seismicity before the last few explosions and no warning is expected before further events. All residents remaining in Frith, Old Towne and Salem are thus urged to move out as soon as possible.
After an explosion, fallout can occur anywhere on the island. People should shelter in a strong building and wait for the fallout to end. If this is not possible then hard hats or other suitable protection should be worn. The pumice and coarse ash deposited over the previous few days continues to make many roads very treacherous. Plenty of time should be allowed for any journey and drivers should be very careful. The wearing of ash masks is recommended at all times. Everyone is advised to keep listening to Radio Montserrat for information on the activity.