The initial stage of the eruption was wholly phreatic, with small amounts of ash and vigorous steaming. 12-13 Aug 95 Strong earthquake swarm beneath St Georges Hill, with over 30 felt events. Aug 95 First large phreatic eruption, which blanketed Plymouth in a thick ash cloud and caused darkness for about 15 minutes. First evacuation of southern Montserrat initiated shortly afterwards. Accompanied by the first swarm of hybrid earthquakes, from 22 to 29 September.
Mud flow from the southeast side of the crater.
Another large phreatic eruption. First indication of new dome growth within the 18 July vent. Increased deformation measured by the Castle Peak EDM line. Nov 95 Intense swarm of hybrid earthquakes, which lasted for several days and developed into low-amplitude volcanic tremor. 95 Confirmation of dome growth within the 18 July vent, with incandescent lava seen for the first time.