The direction of dome growth switched in the earlier part of the week, becoming focussed in the south eastern part of the dome complex. The active summit of the dome consists of a massive, flat-lying lobe directed towards the south east and it has been shedding rockfalls over the Tar River flank of the dome almost continuously. The lobe has deep striations running along its length and it has reached a height of 1041m above sea level. The northeastern lobe, which was highly active two weeks ago, stagnated at a height of 1020m above sea level.

Sulphur dioxide emission rates, measured using DOAS spectrometers, reached a maximum of 12 kilograms per second. Fluctuations in the data appear to reflect variations in the intensity of rockfall activity.

The daytime entry zone (DTEZ) remains open; weather permitting. Activity could increase quite suddenly, with a dangerous situation developing very quickly. Ash masks should be worn in ashy conditions. The Belham Valley should be avoided during and after heavy rainfall due to the possibility of mudflow activity.

Residents of Montserrat and visitors to the island are advised to tune into ZJB Radio for up-to-date information on the volcano. Access to Plymouth, Bramble airport and beyond is prohibited. There is a maritime exclusion zone around the southern part of the island that extends two miles beyond the coastline from Trant's Bay in the east to Garibaldi Hill on the west coast.

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