Activity at the volcano was similar to yesterday and was again dominated by rockfall signals. Between 16:00 yesterday and 16:00 today there were 2 hybrid earthquakes, 3 long period earthquakes and 96 rockfall signals. The rockfalls mainly occurred in three distinct periods. The first occurred between about 10 pm and 11 pm last night, the second occurred between 4 am and 6 am this morning, and the third occurred at 4:54 pm this afternoon. The latest period of activity was the largest of the three events and produced a large dark ash cloud which drifted slowly to the north-west. The rockfalls originated from the south-west flank of the mountain. Such cyclic activity has been seen many times at the volcano before and is typical of active dome growth, which is still occurring on the southwestern side of the dome.
Data from the GPS survey completed yesterday have now been processed and shows no significant movements of any of stations.
No visual observations of the volcano were possible today due to low cloud.
Dust levels at all monitoring stations remained low today.
Dr. Simon Young of the British Geological Survey left the island today after a month long tour of duty.
People should remain alert and listen to Radio Montserrat for further information.