New pyroclastic flow deposits had formed down Tar River, although they had not reached as far as the old coastline. Some small-volume deposits were observed down White River to the south and in Tuitt s Ghaut to the northeast. Sulphur dioxide gas measurements were made with the correlation spectrometer this week. On 9 and 15 February, measurements from the helicopter gave average fluxes of 670 and 420 tonnes per day respectively. Static measurements on 9 and 14 February gave average fluxes of 220 and 80 tonnes per day.
Static measurements are consistently lower than helicopter traverses.
Rockfall and pyroclastic flow activity is likely to continue whilst the dome grows, producing ash clouds which may blow over inhabited areas. Ash masks should be worn in ashy conditions or when ash is disturbed. Elevated levels of pyroclastic flow activity may develop very rapidly and could affect any valleys around the volcano. In addition to the risk from pyroclastic flows, the Belham valley should also be avoided during and after periods of heavy rain. Everyone is reminded that access to Plymouth, Bramble airport and beyond is prohibited.