There has been an increased level of seismicity from the volcano overnight. There have been two hybrid swarms, between 7 and 9:30 last night and between 1 and 3:30 this morning. Of these swarms the one yesterday evening was the most intense with 68 hybrid earthquakes and 7 long period earthquakes occurring in the two and a half hours.
If this activity is linked to dome growth, as was observed in August, then the dome is growing quickly. Pyroclastic flows associated with dome growth can be expected soon. More explosions could occur at any time, they may be individual events or another prolonged sequence may begin. Friths, Old Towne and Salem are not safe with the activity in its current state. Anyone remaining in these areas is strongly urged to move out of the exclusion zone.
There is still ash on the roads and drivers are reminded to be cautious and courteous. The wearing of ash masks is recommended in ashy conditions, especially when cleaning areas with very fine ash particles. Everyone is advised to keep listening to Radio Montserrat for information on the activity.