Activity at the Soufriere Hills volcano during the night was similar in both nature and level to that observed during the previous reporting period. Small- to moderate-sized rockfalls and a few small pyroclastic flows were recorded from the start of the update period to around 22:00 on 02 September when the number of moderate-sized rockfalls and /or small pyroclastic flows increased. This increase continued until about midnight when there was a near-continuous occurrence of pulses of pyroclastic flows till 03:00 this morning. Since this time, the activity level has again decreased to one dominated by small- to moderate-sized rockfalls and small pyroclastic flows. At 06:55 this morning, a moderate-sized pyroclastic flow was observed and recorded and this resulted in an ash cloud which rose to about 7,000 ft above sea level. These rockfalls and pyroclastic flows were confined within the Tar River Valley area and the areas affected by associated ashfalls are similar to those in yesterday's activity, including most of the central corridor and the northwest. Several small volcano-tectonic earthquakes were also recorded but locations have not yet been calculated for these.
Further rockfalls and pyroclastic flows will occur but all indications at the moment are that the pyroclastic flows will be confined to the Tar River Valley area. However, areas affected by associated ashfalls will obviously depend on the direction and strength of the wind at the time. The rainfall overnight has made roads very slippery so extreme care should be taken when driving in affected areas. Dust masks should be worn at all times in ashy environments.
The Tar River Valley and surrounding areas are extremely hazardous and should not be entered under any circumstances.