In 1995 the Soufriere Hills volcano on the island of Montserrat erupted for the first time since the early 1600s. After the 1995 eruption and evacuation, continuing volcanic activity prompted three other evacuations. Thousands of former residents have fled the island, and although many hope to return, it could be years before the volcano simmers down.
(Photograph shot on assignment for, but not published in, "Under the Volcano: Montserrat," July 1997, National Geographic magazine)