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Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO), Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) 31: The Soufriere Hills Volcano continues to show low levels of unrest, expressed through modest ground deformation, degassing and seismic activity, with no indication of resumption of eruptive activity.

The higher rates of shallow volcano-tectonic earthquakes observed by the Montserrat Volcano Observatory since 2019 continues. In the past 12 months, low-frequency seismicity has ceased and ground inflation continues to slow down. Measured SO2 fluxes remain slightly below the long-term average and the dome remains hot.

Overall, the level of unrest at Soufrière Hills Volcano following the 1995-2010 eruptive period continues to decrease. The volcano is well-monitored by the MVO.

There is no clear indication of magma movement within the edifice, but the volcano continues to show some active – if slowing – deep magmatic processes. We would expect a detectable increase in unrest prior to the start of any new eruptive period.

Regardless of how quiet the volcano remains, with its hot, large lava dome, it still presents residual hazards within Zone V, including explosions and pyroclastic flows closer to the vent.

The chance that these hazards will occur within the next year remains low and are likely to be preceded by signals recognisable by the observatory. Lahars triggered by heavy rain remain a hazard. Continuous monitoring of the volcano is essential.