AP: Volcano forces evacuations in Montserrat

Posted on Thu, Jan. 04, 2007

Volcano forces evacuations in Montserrat
BENNETTE ROACH
Associated Press

OLVESTON, Montserrat - Hundreds of people living at the base of Montserrat's
Soufriere Hills volcano evacuated as a lava dome grew to dangerous levels in
the British Caribbean island.

Scientists say that the dome could crumble and send blistering gas and volcanic
debris down the slopes of the volcano, potentially destroying homes in the
ow-lying Belham Valley.

"Residents in these areas are advised not to panic and to start preparations for
moving to safe area," Chief Minister Lowell Lewis said after the first siren
sounded Wednesday.

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Scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory said some pyroclastic flows
already have been observed but that they are at a safe distance. However, the
observatory warned that the pyroclastic flows could escalate significantly.

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