LA SOUFRIÈRE BULLETIN # 16, JANUARY 16, 2021 8:00 PM
- Reasonably clear conditions in the summit area of the La Soufrière Volcano allowed for rock samples to be collected from the western part of the lava dome today.
- During the field sampling mission in the crater, photographs were also taken with a thermal camera by Dr. Adam Stinton recording temperatures of 590 °C on the actively growing front of the dome. It should be noted that the interior of the dome may be at much higher temperatures.
- Visual observations were completed in the afternoon and an aerial survey of the dome was conducted by Dr. Stinton. The aerial survey will be used to create a detailed model of the dome which will help map the growth and volume of the lava dome in the future.
- Visual observations indicate that the lava dome has continued to spread laterally and increase in height with its summit now being marked by a small circular depression which is the focus of most of the gas emissions.
- Measurement of gas compositions being emitted by the lava dome was also undertaken by Dr. Christopher.
- Work continued on the installation of a new seismic and continuous GPS monitoring station on the upper southern flank of the volcano by a team led by Instrumentation Engineer, Lloyd Lynch. The installation is expected to be completed on Sunday 17th January 2021.
- A braced monument for the placement of a continuous GPS antenna for measuring possible deformation associated with the eruption of the volcano was also completed today.
- Alert level remains at Orange. The volcano continues to exude magma on the surface and steam can still be observed from the Belmont Observatory. Persons living in areas close to the volcano should expect strong sulphur smells for several days to weeks, depending on changes in wind direction.
- The National Emergency Management Organisation is reminding the public that no evacuation order or notice has been issued.
- NEMO continues to appeal to the public to desist from visiting the La Soufrière Volcano, especially going into the crater, since doing so is extremely dangerous.
- NEMO will continue to provide regular updates on all activities taking place at La Soufrière.
