Volcanic Eruption Case Study

Volcanic Eruption Case Study - Soufriere Hills Volcano in Monserrat

Date of eruption: 25th June 1997

Size of eruption: large 

Death toll: 19

Cause: Monserrate is above a destructive plate margin where the Atlantic plate is being forced under the Carribean plate. Magma rose up through the weak points in the Soufriere Hills forming an underground pool of magma. The rock above the pool collapsed, opening a vent and causing the eruption.

PRIMARY IMPACTS

1) Large areas were covered with volcanic material - the capital city Plymount was buried under 12 metres of mud and ash.

2) Over 20 villages and two thirds of homes on the island were destroyed…