Limited volcanic activity recorded at Soufrière Hills in Montserrat
The Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) has reported continued low activity at the Soufrière Hills Volcano in its latest weekly update covering October 25 to November 1, 2024.
The MVO stated that seismic monitoring during this period detected minimal activity, with recordings showing three volcano tectonic earthquakes, one hybrid earthquake, and one rockfall.
Sulfur dioxide measurements conducted via helicopter on October 30 included 12 traverses, revealing an average flux of 140 tonnes per day.
“Due to the large size of the lava dome, pyroclastic flows can occur at any time without warning on any side of the volcano, including Gages from where they can travel rapidly into Plymouth,” the MVO said.
The observatory further warned that “tracks across the Belham Valley can be destroyed or heavily modified by flash flooding or lahars, and caution should be exercised crossing the valley during and after rainfall.”
“The Hazard Level is 1. There is no public access to Zone V, including Plymouth. Maritime Zones E and W are daytime transit only between sunrise and sunset (boats may sail through the zone but must not stop). Anyone who ignores these restrictions is liable to be prosecuted,” it further cautioned.
