Activity on the volcano was elevated today. There were 15 rockfall signals and 7 volcano-tectonic earthquakes over the last 24 hours.
At 12.17 pm there was an increase in seismicity at the Long Ground station and scientists in the field observed a marked increase in ash production. Observations made by helicopter between 2.30 pm and 3.45 pm showed that the fumarole areas on the SE side of the dome in the scar formed by the 3 July collapse were much more active. The main fumarolic area was discharging vigorous jets laden with ash. Another fumarole higher up on Galways wall was displaying geysir-like pulsating activity of ash-laden steam. The activity was ongoing at the end of the afternoon.
Dust levels were low at all stations.
Residents should continue listening to Radio Montserrat in case there are sudden developments in the state of the volcano.