Soufrière Hills Volcano

The Soufrière Hills Volcano is an active stratovolcano that became particularly famous due to its eruption that began in 1995. This eruption led to significant ash fall and pyroclastic flows, resulting in the evacuation of the capital, Plymouth, and the northern part of the island.

Eruptions continued intermittently until 2010, with major activity occurring in 1996, 1997, and 1999. The volcanic dome grew and collapsed several times, reshaping the landscape and further complicating evacuation efforts.

The volcanic activity has had a profound impact on Montserrat’s landscape, economy, and population, with much of the island becoming uninhabitable. Monitoring of the volcano is ongoing, as it remains active and poses potential hazards to the region. The eruption has also sparked interest in volcanology and disaster preparedness.

The volcano is monitored 24/7 by staff at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory.

Photographs of Soufriere Hills