As residents would have noted for some time now, there are very few changes in the state of the volcano on a daily basis. Given the level of volcanic activity currently experienced and the reduced threat to persons living in the currently occupied areas of Montserrat, the MVO has decided to discontinue the presentation of a daily report. The last daily report would be done on Sunday 21 March 1999. In order to ensure that the public is still provided with timely information on the volcano, a weekly report would now be prepared to be read on ZJB radio every Friday. In addition, if there were a significant volcanic event, which warrants alerting the public, a special report or press release would be issued.
Residents of Montserrat should note that as activity decreases further, there would be more changes in both the reporting system and mode of operation of the MVO. It is expected that the monthly scientific reports would evolve to quarterly reports. In addition, the regular working hours of the MVO would soon change from the current 24-hour shift system to a normal 8-4 operation. An alarm system, which would alert MVO staff to any marked increase in activity outside this period, is currently being tested. Despite these changes and the reduction in activity, the MVO would remain vigilant in its efforts to provide early warning of potentially damaging volcanic events.
Richard Robertson (Mr)
Interim Director
M. V. O.