A mother and daughter survived a devastating volcanic eruption in Montserrat that destroyed a significant portion of the island. Olivette and Adena Johnson shared their incredible story with The Mirror, detailing their narrow escapes from the destructive Soufriere Hills eruptions in the mid-1990s.
Despite the dangers, the duo continues to reside on the Caribbean island, where the volcano, which last erupted majorly in 2010, remains active. Adena showcases life on Montserrat through her TikTok page, offering glimpses of the vibrant island, although she acknowledged the challenges they faced to reach this point.
After temporarily relocating to the US Virgin Islands, the pair returned to Montserrat, expressing a deep connection to their homeland. Their TikTok series garnered attention, explaining their decision to live near an active volcano, particularly significant given the island’s tumultuous history.
The eruption of Soufriere Hills in the 1990s led to mass evacuations, with pyroclastic flows engulfing homes and transforming once-thriving cities like Plymouth into desolate landscapes. The tragic events forced many families, including the Johnsons, to seek refuge in other countries such as the UK.
Following the eruptions, an exclusion zone covering a significant portion of the island was established, restricting access for most individuals. Despite the population decline after the disasters, Montserrat has seen a gradual recovery in recent years.
Olivette, 68, recounted the terrifying moments of evacuation, including cramming into a car with relatives and friends, and witnessing the devastation wrought by the volcano. Adena, who was a child during the eruptions, remembered seeking shelter in churches turned into makeshift sanctuaries for displaced families.
The family’s resilience shone through as Olivette continued her work as a seamstress, finding innovative solutions to sustain their livelihood amid the chaos. Despite facing challenges like the destruction of WH Bramble Airport, they persevered and eventually returned to Montserrat, where they actively contribute to the community’s revival.
Now settled in the village of Gerald’s, the Johnsons embrace their close-knit community, proud of Montserrat’s resurgence from adversity. Adena uses TikTok to share their survival story, aiming to educate younger generations about the island’s volcanic history and the resilience of its people.
Their tale serves as a reminder of the strength and unity that have enabled them to rebuild their lives and thrive in the face of adversity.