Soufrière Hills Volcano

The island of Montserrat is home to the Soufrière Hills Volcano, which had previously laid dormant until seismic activity began occurring in 1992. Eruptions started in July 1995, resulting in the complete blanketing of the then capital Plymouth in volcanic ash. This led to the full evacuation of the capital in 1996. In 1997 further eruptions took place which closed the the airport, and had dramatic impacts on local businesses (including the destruction of many of them as a result) as well as the tourism industry as a whole. Since then, various eruptions, volcanic debris and mud slides have slowly covered more and more of Plymouth, making it a sort of modern day Pompeii.

These days, the volcano has become quite the tourist draw card, including visitors being able to learn about the history, events & affects of the volcano on modern day Montserrat; as well as being able to view the volcano from outside the safe exclusion zones throughout the island. There are many viewing points throughout the island and it is strongly recommended you do not undertake these on your own. Further information can be found at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory website.