D - Soufrière Hills Eruption (Case Study)

Question 1

What is the significance of the Soufrière Hills volcano in Montserrat?

Answer 1

The Soufrière Hills volcano, located on the small Caribbean island of Montserrat, has affected the island since its eruption in July 1995 after nearly 400 years of dormancy.

Question 2

What tectonic process is responsible for the Soufrière Hills volcano?

Answer 2

It is caused by the plunging of the South American and North American Plates under the Caribbean Plate.

Question 3

What were the immediate effects of the July 1995 eruption?

Answer 3

The eruption produced clouds of ash and steam, covering Plymouth—the island’s largest settlement and capital (population ~4,000)—with ash, which led to its abandonment.

Question 4

How did the eruption impact Montserrat’s population and services?

Answer 4

The eruption forced the evacuation of the southern third of the island, caused the abandonment of key government offices and services in Plymouth, and led to a population decline from 11,000 to 4,500, with many fleeing to Antigua while others lived as refugees in tents.

Question 5

How has Montserrat been redeveloped following the eruption?

Answer 5

The northern part of the island has been redeveloped with new homes, hospitals, upgraded roads, and a new airport to accommodate relocated public services.

Question 6

What are the hazard zones established on Montserrat and their purposes?

Answer 6

There are three zones: the Exclusion Zone (restricted to scientific monitoring and national security), the Central Zone (a residential area under constant alert with mandatory rapid exits, hard hats, and dust masks), and the Northern Zone (a significantly lower risk area suitable for residential and commercial occupation).