December 31st 2009 - a beautifully clear day in Montserrat. The Soufrière Hills' lava dome had been growing for almost three months, seen here looking NWW. Some of the growth had built up on the Northern side, which unfortunately led to an evacuation of the Zone B area, incorporating parts of Old Towne, Happy Hill, Isles bay etc. This area is to the top right of the photo near to the sea - at the end of the Belham River valley.
Just over a week later, the volcano started a phase of vulcanian explosions, followed by a very large event on the 11th February, 2010, which was the last time that lava was extruded at the volcano - almost 4 years ago!
