Monitoring community exposures to volcanic emissions on Montserrat, Eastern Caribbean.

Rosie Lewis, SEE, University of Leeds.

The Soufrière Hills volcano releases around 440 tonnes of sulphur dioxide (SO₂) gas every day, while ash deposits from past eruptions (1999-2011) are regularly disturbed by ash mining activities. This talk will present the first high-resolution study of how volcanic SO₂ and fine particles (PM2.5) are dispersed across the island, leading to different levels of exposure in local communities. This research aims to help local authorities better understand their air quality, assess potential health risks, and explore the need for long-term monitoring. Rosie will share insights and photographs from her field expeditions to Montserrat, offering a glimpse into the unique challenges of working around this active volcano.