Montserrat Volcano Observatory


Morning Update
0700H 23 July, 1996


The level of activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano during the night has continued at about the same relatively high level as seen during the previous observation period. It was dominated by near-continuous low- to moderate-amplitude broadband tremor, on the stations closest to the volcano, in which small- to moderate-sized rockfalls were embedded. Several small volcano-tectonic earthquakes, long-period and hybrid events were also recorded but the numbers were considerably lower than seen during the past two days or so.

Most of the volcano was very clear during the early morning period and near-continuous rockfall and steaming was observed from the northeastern and eastern flanks of the lava dome.

Dome growth is continuing and therefore the threats posed by the Soufriere Hills Volcano continue at the same or a greater level as over the past several months. The Tar River and Long Ground areas to the east and the upper Fort Ghaut, Gages Village and Upper Amersham areas to the west are still extremely hazardous. People should not enter these areas under any circumstances because they put themselves and others at direct risk of very serious injury or death. People are urged to keep visits to the evacuated zone to a minimum.


Montserrat Volcano Observatory