By Wallace J. A

SUNDAY May 21, 2006: According to reports from CDERA (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency), the Montserrat Soufriere Hills Volcano recorded signs of increased activity during the early hours of Saturday May 20, 2006 and by 7.20am, the first dome of the volcano collapsed. As a result of this volcanic activity, pyroclastic flows were able to reach the sea on the eastern side of the island. People residing on the northwestern side of the island have reported receiving heavy ash fall mixed with small stones. The population on the island of Montserrat, however, is said to be safe and the local residents have been urged to remain indoors and to exercise caution and vigilance.

The volcanic activity in Montserrat is believed to have had some impact on at least two other islands in the region: Guadeloupe is said to have experienced a tsunami about I meter high and unconfirmed reports claim that Antigua would have received a ‘mini tsunami’ ranging in height from 8 to 12 inches.

In June 1997, the Soufriere Hills erupted, belching ash into the air and caused the death of at least nine persons. The volcanic flows devastated seven villages on the southern part of the island. More than 1,000 people were evacuated and at least 200 homes were destroyed. The island's population dropped as a result - falling to about 6,800 from 11,000. This would have caused the separation and breakup of many families.

The National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA) here in Grenada has been working hard to have disaster committees in place throughout the entire tri-island state ahead of the 2006 hurricane season, which officially begins on June 01. Only last week, NaDMA had a ‘week of activities’, which were designed to help sensitize the Grenadian public about the many hazards that can impact the country. People were also informed about measures that can be put in place to reduce vulnerabilities and effectively respond to a disaster situation. Grenada too has a submarine volcano, Kick ‘em Jenny, located off the northern coast of the island (12.3 deg. N, 61.63 deg. W). Experts have been constantly monitoring this volcano over the years.

For more information, you can visit:
http://www.cdera.org/cunews/sitrep/montserrat/article_1648.php

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