Activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has remained at a relatively low level today. It was dominated by small- to moderate-sized rockfalls and intermittent low amplitude broadband tremor.
A total of 92 rockfall events were recorded during this period, about the same number as yesterday. The largest rockfall occurred at 08:24 on 19 June. None of these were large enough to generate any major ash clouds. There were 7 long-period events and 8 hybrid events. Intermittent low- to moderate-amplitude broadband tremor was recorded throughout the reporting period on the stations closest to the volcano.
Viewing conditions have again been rather poor. Sightings of the lower flanks of the dome and partial sightings of the top of the dome were possible in the afternoon. Very little rockfall activity was observed. Very little new material has come over Gages wall into upper Fort Ghaut. Recent activity seems to have been concentrated to the south of this, and on the southwest flank of the dome. There is also still some activity on the north flank of the dome and material continues to be built up behind Farrells's wall. The material is now about 50 ft below the top of the wall.
EDM measurements were made today on lines in the nothern and eastern triangles. GPS measurements were made on the western side of the volcano. Both sets of data are still being processed.
COSPEC measurements of the SO2 flux in the plume were made today. The data is still being processed.
Paul Cole of the University of Luton arrived today for a two-week visit. He will be working on the volcanic deposits, both old and recent.
Scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory remain highly concerned about the current state of the volcano and the dangers to people and property on both it's eastern and upper western flanks. Visits to the evacuated zone should be kept to an absolute minimum. The Tar River, Long Ground and Whites areas to the east and upper Fort Ghaut, Gages Village and Upper Amersham areas to the west are all extremely dangerous. The road between Lee's Estate and Ryners Village remains closed. People should not enter these areas under any circumstances. If they do, they put themselves and others at direct risk of serious injury or death.