Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Daily Report
Report for the period 5 p.m. 20 December
to 5 p.m. 21 December 1998


The volcano has been slightly more active today. During the reporting period there were 16 rockfall signals and 1 volcano-tectonic earthquake.

The level of activity increased this afternoon with a large signal lasting for over ten minutes. No fresh pyroclastic flow deposits were observed after the event although Gages valley was completely obscured by the thick ash. Very vigorous ash venting occurred for thirty minutes after the event and dense, black jets containing large rocks were observed coming from the main vent. The rocks were carried to heights of about 80 metres above the vent.

Temperature measurements in Saturday's flow were made on the Tar River fan. Maximum temperatures of 297 degrees centigrade were recorded.

Residents of Montserrat are advised to keep listening to ZJB Radio Montserrat for information relating to any further developments in the state of the volcano.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory