SALEM – The No Entry ban on Zone V has been lifted according to the latest Montserrat Volcano Observatory report.
In the report covering July 3-10, 2015 the MVO states that the sulphur-dioxide measurements was down significantly from the previous week, which led to the discontinuation of the ban on travel to Plymouth.
The full report follows:
“Activity at the Soufrière Hills Volcano remains low. The sulphur-dioxide flux has dropped and the total ban on access to Zone V is no longer in force.
“Sulphur-dioxide measurements during the reporting period gave an average flux of 365 tonnes/day with a maximum of 564 and a minimum of 243 tonnes/day. The weekly average is down significantly from 466 last week.
“The seismic network recorded six volcano-tectonic earthquakes this week.
“Given the reduction in sulphur-dioxide flux and the lack of any significant visual or seismic activity, NDPRAC have cancelled the recently-introduced total ban on access to Zone V. Access is now allowed for sand export and other NDPRAC-approved activities.
“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. Tracks across the Belham valley are frequently 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 Plymouth or the rest of Zone V. 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.
This report along with additional information on the Soufrière Hills Volcano and the Hazard Level System can be found at the MVO website: www.mvo.ms.”
