Visual observations revealed very little change to the dome structure during the period, and lava extrusion appears to have ceased. Nevertheless, whilst the dome may not be actively growing, it remains as a large mass of partially molten lava capable of collapsing or exploding. The amount of material above Tyres Ghaut to the NW is sufficient to generate pyroclastic flows and surges capable of impacting on the lower Belham Valley and lower lying areas up o lower Happy Hill and the Old Towne ridge.
Recorded seismic activity remained very low throughout the period. The seismic network recorded 2 rockfall and 1 long-period rockfall signal.
The sulphur dioxide (SO2) flux rate remained low throughout the reporting period, ranging from a minimum of 56 tones per day (t/d) to a maximum of 249 t/d. The average of 143 t/d is significantly below the long-term average for the eruption (550 t/d).
The alert level remained at 4.
Residents of Montserrat and visitors to the island are advised to tune into ZJB Radio 88.3 or 95.5 FM for up-to-date information on the volcano.
Access to all areas on the lower flanks of the Belham Valley and further south, and south of Jack Boy Hill to Bramble airport and beyond is prohibited at all times (readers are refereed to the updated risk map). The maritime exclusion zone around the southern part of the island extends 4 km off shore from Spanish Point to Roches Yard on the east side of the volcano, 2 km offshore from O'Garras to Sturge Park on the south-west, and 2 km offshore from Isles Bay to Old Road Bluff on the west (maritime risk map).
For further explanations of the volcanic phenomena described, and information about the Soufrière Hills Volcano and the ongoing eruption, please look at the rest of the MVO website.