Three (3) volcano-tectonic earthquakes were located during this period at depths in the range 0 to 3 km; one in the Paradise Estate area, one just north of Roche's Yard and the third beneath the Soufriere Hills volcano. Eleven (11) long-period events were recorded by most of the seismic stations of the network. Broadband tremor continued intermittently and at variable amplitude throughout the period but was still only recorded on the Gages seismic station. Periods of higher amplitude tremor were recorded from 21:00 to 22:00 on 30 December and from 02:00 to 04:00 on 31 December. This tremor is thought to be due to increased rates of steam emission from the crater area. A reasonably large regional earthquake was recorded by the local network at 20:30 on 30 December.
No EDM lines were measured today due to the persistent rain and low cloud over the volcano. The electronic tiltmeter at Long Ground continues to show no deformation of the volcano whilst the one at Spring Hill is off line at the moment.
Visual observations were attempted from the helicopter late this afternoon, 31 December. Unfortunately, the cloud cover did not clear sufficiently for good views to be gained so that any new developments in the crater area could not be seen.
The return football match between MVO and Police had to be postponed due to the state of the field; a new date for this keenly awaited fixture has not yet been decided.