A mother and daughter shared their incredible survival story after escaping a devastating volcanic eruption in Montserrat that destroyed a significant portion of the island. Olivette and Adena Johnson recounted their harrowing experience of narrowly avoiding death during the catastrophic Soufriere Hills eruptions in the mid-1990s.
Remarkably, the duo continues to reside on the Caribbean island while the volcano, which last erupted majorly in 2010, remains active. Adena showcases life on Montserrat through her TikTok page, highlighting the island’s vibrant beauty while acknowledging the challenges they faced to reach this point.
Following the eruptions that led to a mass evacuation, the island’s population drastically decreased but has gradually recovered over the years. Olivette, 68, vividly recalled the moments when they had to hastily evacuate, cramming into a car with relatives and friends as officials sounded the alarm. She recounted the close encounters with danger, including witnessing a friend being airlifted amidst the unfolding chaos caused by the volcanic flows.
Adena, who was a child during the eruptions, remembered seeking refuge in churches that transformed into shelters for displaced families. The Johnsons’ resilience shone through as they navigated the aftermath, with Olivette continuing her work as a seamstress despite the challenges.
After seeking temporary refuge in the US Virgin Islands, the family returned to Montserrat, settling in Gerald’s village where they actively participated in rebuilding efforts post-eruption. Embracing their tight-knit community, they take pride in showcasing the resilient spirit of Montserratians who have overcome adversity.
Through platforms like TikTok, Adena aims to preserve and share their survival story, particularly for younger generations unfamiliar with the island’s volcanic history. By raising awareness about their experiences, she hopes to honor the collective resilience of Montserratians shaped by the volcanic events that have defined their identity.