Montserrat -- Dec. 27, 2008 -- The National Disaster Preparedness and Response Advisory Committee (NDPRAC) met December 22, 2008, to determine what preparatory actions should be taken in light of a steady increase of activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano over the last ten (10) days.

The meeting was held to look at the possible impact that the recent volcanic activity could have on Zone Area B and on areas bordering Zone B which includes Isles Bay, Waterworks, Parts of Old Town and Lower Happy Hill. The MVO Director recommended to the NDPRAC that the hazard level be moved to Level Four, with an increase in lava extrusion over the past few days on the north and north-west of the old dome, as well as on the Chances Peak side, producing rockfalls and pyroclastic flows. Pyroclastic flows have been directed mainly towards Chances Peak/White River, West of Gages Mountain (towards Plymouth) and Tyres Ghaut.

Mr. Fournier said, “Since Saturday December 20, rock falls and pyroclastic flows started to go down Tyres Ghaut, a few reaching the very lower part of the ghaut, in less than 3 minutes. There is a lack of warning signs before such rock-falls/pyroclastic flows. Lava extrusion is now occurring at/ or very near - the top of the old dome, on the N-NW side, increasing the potential for material entering Tyres
Ghaut.”

The activity (lava extrusion, dome building and associated rockfalls and pyroclastic flows) is extremely unlikely to decrease over the coming few weeks. “Even if the level of activity remains the same, the hazard level is likely to increase due to potential accumulation of new lava high-up in the dome,” Fournier advised. As a result, NDPRAC increased the hazard level, changing it from 3 to 4, due to the threat to areas north and west of the dome. He also stressed while he is not mandating an evacuation at this time.

He said that there is a need for increased preparedness for those living in Zone B in event those residents of need to evacuate at a moments notice. A public awareness campaign will also be intensified, as the Government of Montserrat moves to assure residents and visitors that measures are continuing to ensure their safety, as well as keeping them informed on the developing situation.

There have not been any ash falls that have been reported over inhabited areas, since the prevailing winds is towards the west. However, if the wind switches direction, people living in Area B should expect some ash fall. Area A and further north where the majority of the islandʼs population resides is not affected by the increase of the hazards, apart from potential of ash fall.

Residents and visitors are asked to stay tuned to Radio Montserrat ZJB for further details.