The level of activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano during the night was slightly higher than that observed during the day but was still relatively low when compared to other periods during the past three weeks. The activity is still dominated by small- to moderate-sized rockfalls from the eastern flanks of the lava dome. A few of the rockfalls between 05:30 and 06:30 this morning resulted in small ash clouds which rose to about 5,000 ft above sea level and were blown westward over the Upper Gages area. Several episodes of low- to moderate-amplitude broadband tremor were also recorded at the stations closest to the Crater, especially the Gages seismic station. These are probably due to increased steam venting from the Crater.
Visibility during the early morning from both the Observatory and Bramble Airport was very poor.
Extreme care should be exercised when driving in areas affected by recent ashfalls. Please do not forget to wear dust masks.
The Tar River Valley and surrounding areas are extremely hazardous and should not be entered under any circumstances.