1997 Explosions

In August 1997, a series of 10 Vulcanian explosions generated ash and pyroclastic flows that buried parts of Plymouth, which by that time had been permanently evacuated. Activity continued at a high level in September and October 1997 with a further 75 medium-sized Vulcanian eruptions.

A Vulcanian eruption of Soufrière Hills in October 1997. Credit: Paul Cole

4. Falling ash and stones

Big Collapse And Ash Clean Up (July 2003)

2000 +

The North

View >

1. Watching the Volcano

Pyroclastic Flows

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000 +

East

West (Plymouth)

View >

1. Watching the Volcano

Volcanic Ash

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000 +

View >

5. Volcano island

The First Big Explosion: 17 September 1996

1996

View >

5. Volcano island

Start Of The Eruption: 18 July 1995

1995

The Volcano & Belham

West (Plymouth)

View >

2. Moving, Crossing and Leaving

One More River To Cross

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

East

The Volcano & Belham

West (Plymouth)

View >

4. Falling ash and stones

Shovellin’

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000 +

View >

4. Falling ash and stones

Like Day Turning To Night

1997

1998

1999

2000 +

View >

5. Volcano island

Volcano When You Gonna Stop

2000 +

East

The Volcano & Belham

View >