The level of activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano during this reporting period was generally similar to the relatively low level observed during the previous twenty four hours. Signals indicative of small- to moderate-sized rock avalanches from the flanks of the growing lava dome continue to dominate the seismic records.
Eighteen (18) rockfall, 5 hybrid and 22 long-period events were recorded. The largest rockfalls occurred at 23:14 on 13 July, 10:27 and 14:45 on 14 July. Both the long-period and hybrid earthquakes were generally small. A larger hybrid event at 17:14 on 13 July 1996 was located at a very shallow depth beneath the Crater. Four (4) small volcano-tectonic earthquakes were also recorded during this period, of which 2 were located at a depth of 2km beneath the Crater. Intermittent low- to moderate-amplitude broadband tremor occurred throughout the period. A moderate-amplitude, continuous, broadband signal recorded by the Gages seismic station for about 30 minutes from 20:31 on 13 July was most probably due to increased runoff in Fort Ghaut as a result of heavy rainfall.
Visibility was poor during the whole observation period, with the volcano being obscured by clouds.
GPS, gravity, COSPEC and EDM measurements were not made today because of the inclement weather.
The Soufriere Hills Volcano is still considered to be highly dangerous to people and property on it's eastern and upper western flanks. Visits to the evacuated zone must be kept to a minimum. The Tar River and Long Ground areas to the east and upper Fort Ghaut, Gages Village and Upper Amersham areas to the west are all extremely dangerous. All access roads to these areas remain closed and 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.