Volcanological monitoring

Understanding the behaviour of the Soufrière Hills volcano is essential in assessing the hazards and associated risks it poses. Geological observations and measurements help us to improve our knowledge of the mechanisms that drive the eruption.

Observations and surveys give an indication of the level of activity of the dome.

A helicopter was used for making observations, surveys, sampling and equipment repairs.

Observations and sampling of pyroclastic flow deposits help to find out how they work.

Temperature measurements can help with assessing the lethal potential of pyroclastic flows.

Analysis of rock chemistry from samples erupted from the volcano tells us what is happening deep in the Earth.

Soufrière Hills Lava Dome 21 September 1997. Heights in metres.

Dome profiles to show areas of active growth and thus potential instability.

Graphic showing deposits map - click here to enlarge
The map shows the distribution of pyroclastic flow deposits around the volcano from the 1995-99 eruptions.