In response to continuing eruptions from the Soufriere Hills, a voluntary evacuation of the island began in May 1997. The British government sent HMS Liverpool and RFA Black Rover to assist. The mission was given a renewed impetus after 25 Jun, when a pyroclastic flow claimed more lives.

Royal Marines from 42 Commando also placed additional instrumentation around the volcano to improve monitoring efforts. The operation continued until 29 Aug.