We suggest that episodic volcanic eruptions induce patterns of fluvial disturbance and response that share similarities with those generated by better-studied large eruptions (e.g., Pinatubo) and persistent volcanic sediment supply (e.g., Semeru), but that their cyclic nature makes them distinct.

This synthesis has allowed us to develop a conceptual model relating variable catchment conditions to evolving lahar hazard and channel morphology. We identify a dynamic interplay between sediment supply, water supply, and vegetation cover that exerts control on lahars and channel change.

We have measured this channel evolution and the changing state of the catchment by synthesising a multi-parameter dataset derived from a range of sources, including remote sensing (e.g., rainfall, vegetation), topographic data, aerial/ground surveys, volcano observatory logs, and literature.

In this paper we have documented the morphodynamic evolution of the Belham River Valley driven by lahars in response to the episodic eruption of Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat, since 1995.

Generally, the channel has aggraded - minor degradational phases have occurred during eruptive pauses.