Rainfall induces pyroclastic flow in Montserrat
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| Published on Tuesday, August 26, 2008 |
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By Karen ‘Lioness’ Allen
Caribbean Net News Montserrat Correspondent
Email: karen@caribbeannetnews.com
BRADES, Montserrat: Scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) report that there was a rainfall-induced pyroclastic flow early on the morning of August 25, 2008.
Reports indicate that the wind direction was to the north, at the time of this pyroclastic flow. As a result, ash fall is reported around most of Montserrat.
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| Small pyroclastic flow in the Tar River Valley |
At 1:10 am, after about an hour of heavy rain, the MVO says, “The flow was on the western flank of the volcano and lasted for less than 15 minutes. The flow split into two parts. The larger part traveled towards Lee’s Yard, but did not go as far as the flow on 28 July 2008. The other part of the flow traveled in the direction of Plymouth, but stopped before Amersham Estates.”
MVO’s Director, Roderick Stewart, says, “At the time of the flow, the wind was blowing towards the North; so there was a strong smell of volcanic gases in most areas of Montserrat. The smell of gases continued to be noticeable throughout the night.”
The MVO’s Director went on to say, “The flow has enlarged and steepened the rockfall gully over the Gages Wall. Because of this, further pyroclastic flows may occur without any warning, especially when there is heavy rainfall.” | | | | Reads : 940 | | | |
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