The role of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory is to provide
impartial advice to the authorities on the volcanic activity and
its associated hazards and risks. The origin of a permanent
volcano observatory on Montserrat can be traced to periods of
increased seismic activity that began in Montserrat in the early
1990s, first recognized by the UWI Seismic Research Unit
(currently the Seismic Research Centre), through its regional
monitoring activities. This activity prompted the SRU to
strengthen the seismic network on the island, make field
measurements of dry tilt and to look for possible changes in
fumarolic activity. The SRU was assisted by scientists from the
Guadeloupe Volcano Observatory (of IPGP). Immediately following
the first phreatic explosions on 18 July 1995, the SRU
established an operational base on Montserrat so as to provide
direct scientific advice on the state of the volcano to the
local authorities and to continue upgrading the monitoring
network. Acting on the advice of the SRU, the Govern