The lava lake in the summit crater of Erebus has been active since at least 1972. Located in Antarctica overlooking the McMurdo Station on Ross Island, it is the southernmost active volcano on the planet. Because of the remote location, activity is primarily monitored by satellites. This report covers activity during 2023.

The number of thermal alerts recorded by the Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology’s MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System increased considerably in 2023 compared to the years 2020-2022 (table 9). In contrast to previous years, the MODIS instruments aboard the Aqua and Terra satellites captured data from Erebus every month during 2023. Consistent with previous years, the lowest number of anomalous pixels were recorded in January, November, and December.

Table 9. Number of monthly MODIS-MODVOLC thermal alert pixels recorded at Erebus during 2017-2023. See BGVN 42:06 for data from 2000 through 2016. The table was compiled using data provided by the HIGP – MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System.

Sentinel-2 infrared images showed one or two prominent heat sources within the summit crater, accompanied by adjacent smaller sources, similar to recent years (see BGVN 46:01, 47:02, and 48:01). A unique image was obtained on 25 November 2023 by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9, showing the upper part of the volcano surrounded by clouds (figure 32).

Figure 32. Satellite view of Erebus with the summit and upper flanks visible above the surrounding weather clouds on 25 November 2023. Landsat 9 OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) image with visible and infrared bands. Thermal anomalies are present in the summit crater. The edifice is visible from about 2,000 m elevation to the summit around 3,800 m. The summit crater is ~500 m in diameter, surrounded by a zone of darker snow-free deposits; the larger circular summit area is ~4.5 km diameter. NASA Earth Observatory image by Lauren Dauphin, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey.

Geologic Background. Mount Erebus, the world's southernmost historically active volcano, overlooks the McMurdo research station on Ross Island. It is the largest of three major volcanoes forming the crudely triangular Ross Island. The summit of the dominantly phonolitic volcano has been modified by one or two generations of caldera formation. A summit plateau at about 3,200 m elevation marks the rim of the youngest caldera, which formed during the late-Pleistocene and within which the modern cone was constructed. An elliptical 500 x 600 m wide, 110-m-deep crater truncates the summit and contains an active lava lake within a 250-m-wide, 100-m-deep inner crater; other lava lakes are sometimes present. The glacier-covered volcano was erupting when first sighted by Captain James Ross in 1841. Continuous lava-lake activity with minor explosions, punctuated by occasional larger Strombolian explosions that eject bombs onto the crater rim, has been documented since 1972, but has probably been occurring for much of the volcano's recent history.

Information Contacts: Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/); NASA Earth Observatory, EOS Project Science Office, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Goddard, Maryland, USA (URL: https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/152134/erebus-breaks-through).

Rincón de la Vieja is a volcanic complex in Costa Rica with a hot convecting acid lake that exhibits frequent weak phreatic explosions, gas-and-steam emissions, and occasional elevated sulfur dioxide levels (BGVN 45:10, 46:03, 46:11). The current eruption period began June 2021. This report covers activity during July-December 2023 and is based on weekly bulletins and occasional daily reports from the Observatorio Vulcanologico Sismologica de Costa Rica-Universidad Nacional (OVSICORI-UNA).

Numerous weak phreatic explosions continued during July-December 2023, along with gas-and-steam emissions and plumes that rose as high as 3 km above the crater rim. Many weekly OVSICORI-UNA bulletins included the previous week's number of explosions and emissions (table 9). For many explosions, the time of explosion was given (table 10). Frequent seismic activity (long-period earthquakes, volcano-tectonic earthquakes, and tremor) accompanied the phreatic activity.

Table 9. Number of reported weekly phreatic explosions and gas-and-steam emissions at Rincón de la Vieja, July-December 2023. Counts are reported for the week before the Weekly Bulletin date; not all reports included these data. Courtesy of OVSICORI-UNA.

Table 10. Summary of activity at Rincón de la Vieja during July-December 2023. Weak phreatic explosions and gas emissions are noted where the time of explosion was indicated in the weekly or daily bulletins. Height of plumes or emissions are distance above the crater rim. Courtesy of OVSICORI-UNA.

According to OVSICORI-UNA, during July-October the average weekly sulfur dioxide (SO₂) flux ranged from 68 to 240 tonnes/day. However, in mid-November the flux increased to as high as 334 tonnes/day, the highest value measured in recent years. The high SO₂ flux in mid-November was also detected by the TROPOMI instrument on the Sentinel-5P satellite (figure 43).

Figure 43. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) maps from Rincón de la Vieja recorded by the TROPOMI instrument aboard the Sentinel-5P satellite on 16 November (left) and 20 November (right) 2023. Mass estimates are consistent with measurements by OVSICORI-UNA near ground level. Some of the plume on 20 November may be from other volcanoes (triangle symbols) in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Courtesy of the NASA Global Sulfur Dioxide Monitoring Page.

Geologic Background. Rincón de la Vieja, the largest volcano in NW Costa Rica, is a remote volcanic complex in the Guanacaste Range. The volcano consists of an elongated, arcuate NW-SE-trending ridge constructed within the 15-km-wide early Pleistocene Guachipelín caldera, whose rim is exposed on the south side. Sometimes known as the "Colossus of Guanacaste," it has an estimated volume of 130 km3 and contains at least nine major eruptive centers. Activity has migrated to the SE, where the youngest-looking craters are located. The twin cone of Santa María volcano, the highest peak of the complex, is located at the eastern end of a smaller, 5-km-wide caldera and has a 500-m-wide crater. A Plinian eruption producing the 0.25 km3 Río Blanca tephra about 3,500 years ago was the last major magmatic eruption. All subsequent eruptions, including numerous historical eruptions possibly dating back to the 16th century, have been from the prominent active crater containing a 500-m-wide acid lake located ENE of Von Seebach crater.

Information Contacts: Observatorio Vulcanológico Sismológica de Costa Rica-Universidad Nacional (OVSICORI-UNA), Apartado 86-3000, Heredia, Costa Rica (URL: http://www.ovsicori.una.ac.cr/); NASA Global Sulfur Dioxide Monitoring Page, Atmospheric Chemistry and Dynamics Laboratory, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (NASA/GSFC), 8800 Greenbelt Road, Goddard MD 20771, USA (URL: https://so2.gsfc.nasa.gov/).

Bezymianny, located on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, has had eruptions since 1955 characterized by dome growth, explosions, pyroclastic flows, ash plumes, and ashfall. Activity during November 2022-April 2023 included gas-and-steam emissions, lava dome collapses generating avalanches, and persistent thermal activity. Similar eruptive activity continued from May through October 2023, described here based on information from weekly and daily reports of the Kamchatka Volcano Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), notices from Tokyo VAAC (Volcanic Ash Advisory Center), and from satellite data.

Overall activity decreased after the strong period of activity in late March through April 2023, which included ash explosions during 29 March and 7-8 April 2023 that sent plumes as high as 10-12 km altitude, along with dome growth and lava flows (BGVN 48:05). This reduced activity can be seen in the MIROVA thermal detection system graph (figure 56), which was consistent with data from the MODVOLC thermal detection system and with Sentinel-2 satellite images that showed persistent hotspots in the summit crater when conditions allowed observations. A renewed period of strong activity began in mid-October 2023.

Figure 56. The MIROVA (Log Radiative Power) thermal data for Bezymianny during 20 November 2022 through October 2023 shows heightened activity in the first half of April and second half of October 2023, with lower levels of thermal anomalies in between those times. Courtesy of MIROVA.

Activity increased significantly on 17 October 2023 when large collapses began during 0700-0830 on the E flanks of the lava dome and continued to after 0930 the next day (figure 57). Ash plumes rose to an altitude of 4.5-5 km, extending 220 km NNE by 18 October. A large explosion at 1630 on 18 October produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 11 km (8 km above the summit) and drifted NNE and then NW, extending 900 km NW within two days at an altitude of 8 km. Minor ashfall was noted in Kozyrevsk (45 km WNW). At 0820 on 20 October an ash plume was identified in satellite images drifting 100 km ENE at altitudes of 4-4.5 km.

Figure 57. Sentinel-2 satellite images of Bezymianny from 1159 on 17 October 2023 (2359 on 16 October UTC) showing a snow-free S and SE flank along with thermal anomalies in the crater and down the SE flank. Left image is in false color (bands 8, 4, 3); right image is thermal infrared (bands 12, 11, 8A). Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Lava flows and hot avalanches from the dome down the SE flank continued over the next few days, including 23 October when clear conditions allowed good observations (figures 58 and 59). A large thermal anomaly was observed over the volcano through 24 October, and in the summit crater on 30 October (figure 60). Strong fumarolic activity continued, with numerous avalanches and occasional incandescence. By the last week of October, volcanic activity had decreased to a level consistent with that earlier in the reporting period.

Figure 58. Daytime photo of Bezymianny under clear conditions on 23 October 2023 showing a lava flow and avalanches descending the SE flank, incandescence from the summit crater, and a small ash plume. Photo by Yu. Demyanchuk, courtesy of IVS FEB RAS, KVERT.

Figure 59. Night photo of Bezymianny under cloudy conditions on 23 October 2023 showing an incandescent lava flow and avalanches descending the SE flank. Photo by Yu. Demyanchuk, courtesy of IVS FEB RAS, KVERT.

Figure 60. Sentinel-2 satellite images of Bezymianny from 1159 on 30 October 2023 (2359 on 29 October UTC) showing a plume drifting SE and thermal anomalies in the summit crater and down multiple flanks. Left image is in true color (bands 4, 3, 2); right image is thermal infrared (bands 12, 11, 8A). Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Aviation warnings were frequently updated during 17-20 October. KVERT issued a Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) on 17 October at 1419 and 1727 (0219 and 0527 UTC) raising the Aviation Color Code (ACC) from Yellow to Orange (second highest level). The next day, KVERT issued a VONA at 1705 (0505 UTC) raising the ACC to Red (highest level) but lowered it back to Orange at 2117 (0917 UTC). After another decrease to Yellow and back to Orange, the ACC was reduced to Yellow on 20 October at 1204 (0004 UTC). In addition, the Tokyo VAAC issued a series of Volcanic Ash Advisories beginning on 16 October and continuing through 30 October.

Geologic Background. The modern Bezymianny, much smaller than its massive neighbors Kamen and Kliuchevskoi on the Kamchatka Peninsula, was formed about 4,700 years ago over a late-Pleistocene lava-dome complex and an edifice built about 11,000-7,000 years ago. Three periods of intensified activity have occurred during the past 3,000 years. The latest period, which was preceded by a 1,000-year quiescence, began with the dramatic 1955-56 eruption. This eruption, similar to that of St. Helens in 1980, produced a large open crater that was formed by collapse of the summit and an associated lateral blast. Subsequent episodic but ongoing lava-dome growth, accompanied by intermittent explosive activity and pyroclastic flows, has largely filled the 1956 crater.

Information Contacts: Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Piip Blvd., Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.kscnet.ru/ivs/kvert/); Kamchatka Volcanological Station, Kamchatka Branch of Geophysical Survey, (KB GS RAS), Klyuchi, Kamchatka Krai, Russia (URL: http://volkstat.ru/); Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), 1-3-4 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8122, Japan (URL: http://ds.data.jma.go.jp/svd/vaac/data/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/).chr

Kīlauea is the southeastern-most volcano in Hawaii and overlaps the E flank of the Mauna Loa volcano. Its East Rift Zone (ERZ) has been intermittently active for at least 2,000 years. An extended eruption period began in January 1983 and was characterized by open lava lakes and lava flows from the summit caldera and the East Rift Zone. During May 2018 magma migrated into the Lower East Rift Zone (LERZ) and opened 24 fissures along a 6-km-long NE-trending fracture zone that produced lava flows traveling in multiple directions. As lava emerged from the fissures, the lava lake at Halema'uma'u drained and explosions sent ash plumes to several kilometers altitude (BGVN 43:10).

The current eruption period started during September 2021 and has recently been characterized by lava effusions, spatter, and sulfur dioxide emissions in the active Halema’uma’u lava lake (BGVN 47:08). Lava effusions, some spatter, and sulfur dioxide emissions have continued during this reporting period of July through December 2022 using daily reports, volcanic activity notices, and abundant photo, map, and video data from the US Geological Survey's (USGS) Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO).

Summary of activity during July-December 2022. Low-level effusions have continued at the western vent of the Halema’uma’u crater during July through early December 2022. Occasional weak ooze-outs (also called lava break outs) would occur along the margins of the crater floor. The overall level of the active lava lake throughout the reporting period gradually increased due to infilling, however it stagnated in mid-September (table 13). During September through November, activity began to decline, though lava effusions persisted at the western vent. By 9 December, the active part of the lava lake had completely crusted over, and incandescence was no longer visible.

Table 13. Summary of measurements taken during overflights at Kīlauea that show a gradual increase in the active lava lake level and the volume of lava effused since 29 September 2021. Lower activity was reported during September-October. Data collected during July-December 2022. Courtesy of HVO.

Activity during July 2022. Lava effusions were reported from the western vent in the Halema’uma’u crater, along with occasional weak ooze-outs along the margins of the crater floor. The height of the lava lake was variable due to deflation-inflation tilt events; for example, the lake level dropped approximately 3-4 m during a summit deflation-inflation event reported on 1 July. Webcam images taken during the night of 6-12 July showed intermittent low-level spattering at the western vent that rose less than 10 m above the vent (figure 519). Measurements made during an overflight on 7 July indicated that the crater floor was infilled about 130 m and that 95 million cubic meters of lava had been effused since 29 September 2021. A single, relatively small lava ooze-out was active to the S of the lava lake. Around midnight on 8 July there were two brief periods of lava overflow onto the lake margins. On 9 July lava ooze-outs were reported near the SE and NE edges of the crater floor and during 10-11 July they occurred near the E, NE, and NW edges. On 16 July crater incandescence was reported, though the ooze-outs and spattering were not visible. On 18 July overnight webcam images showed incandescence in the western vent complex and two ooze-outs were reported around 0000 and 0200 on 19 July. By 0900 there were active ooze-outs along the SW edge of the crater floor. Measurements made from an overflight on 19 July indicated that the crater floor was infilled about 133 m and 98 million cubic meters of lava had erupted since 29 September 2021 (figure 520). On 20 July around 1600 active ooze-outs were visible along the N edge of the crater, which continued through the next day. Extensive ooze-outs occurred along the W margin during 24 July until 1900; on 26 July minor ooze-outs were noted along the N margin. Minor spattering was visible on 29 July along the E margin of the lake. The sulfur dioxide emission rates ranged 650-2,800 tons per day (t/d), the higher of which was measured on 8 July (figure 519).

Figure 519. Minor spattering rising less than 10 m was visible at the E end of the lava lake within Halema‘uma‘u, at the summit of Kīlauea on 8 July 2022. Sulfur dioxide is visible rising from the lake surface (bluish-colored fume). A sulfur dioxide emission rate of approximately 2,800 t/d was measured on 8 July. Courtesy of K. Mulliken, USGS.

Figure 520. A helicopter overflight on 19 July 2022 allowed for aerial visible and thermal imagery to be taken of the Halema’uma’u crater at Kīlauea’s summit crater. The active part of the lava lake is confined to the western part of the crater. The scale of the thermal map ranges from blue to red, with blue colors indicative of cooler temperatures and red colors indicative of warmer temperatures. Courtesy of USGS, HVO.

Activity during August 2022. The eruption continued in the Halema’uma’u crater at the western vent. According to HVO the lava in the active lake remained at the level of the bounding levees. Occasional minor ooze-outs were observed along the margins of the crater floor. Strong nighttime crater incandescence was visible after midnight on 6 August over the western vent cone. During 6-7 August scattered small lava lobes were active along the crater floor and incandescence persisted above the western vent through 9 August. During 7-9 August HVO reported a single lava effusion source was active along the NW margin of the crater floor. Measurements from an overflight on 4 August indicated that the crater floor was infilled about 136 m total and that 102 million cubic meters of lava had been erupted since the start of the eruption. Lava breakouts were reported along the N, NE, E, S, and W margins of the crater during 10-16 August. Another overflight survey conducted on 16 August indicated that the crater floor infilled about 137 m and 104 million cubic meters of lava had been erupted since September 2021. Measured sulfur dioxide emissions rates ranged 1,150-2,450 t/d, the higher of which occurred on 8 August.

Activity during September 2022. During September, lava effusion continued from the western vent into the active lava lake and onto the crater floor. Intermittent minor ooze-outs were reported through the month. A small ooze-out was visible on the W crater floor margin at 0220 on 2 September, which showed decreasing surface activity throughout the day, but remained active through 3 September. On 3 September around 1900 a lava outbreak occurred along the NW margin of the crater floor but had stopped by the evening of 4 September. Field crews monitoring the summit lava lake on 9 September observed spattering on the NE margin of the lake that rose no higher than 10 m, before falling back onto the lava lake crust (figure 521). Overflight measurements on 12 September indicated that the crater floor was infilled a total of 143 m and 111 million cubic meters of lava had been erupted since September 2021. Extensive breakouts in the W and N part of the crater floor were reported at 1600 on 20 September and continued into 26 September. The active part of the lava lake dropped by 10 m while other parts of the crater floor dropped by several meters. Summit tiltmeters recorded a summit seismic swarm of more than 80 earthquakes during 1500-1800 on 21 September, which occurred about 1.5 km below Halema’uma’u; a majority of these were less than Mw 2. By 22 September the active part of the lava lake was infilled about 2 m. On 23 September the western vent areas exhibited several small spatter cones with incandescent openings, along with weak, sporadic spattering (figure 522). The sulfur dioxide emission rate ranged from 930 t/d to 2,000 t/d, the higher of which was measured on 6 September.

Figure 521. Photo of spattering occurring at Kīlauea's Halema’uma’u crater during the morning of 9 September 2022 on the NE margin of the active lava lake. The spatter material rose 10 m into the air before being deposited back on the lava lake crust. Courtesy of C. Parcheta, USGS.

Figure 522.The active western vent area at Kīlauea's Halema’uma’u crater consisted of several small spatter cones with incandescent openings and weak, sporadic spattering. Courtesy of M. Patrick, USGS.

Activity during October 2022. Activity during October declined slightly compared to previous months, though lava effusions persisted from the western vent into the active lava lake and onto the crater floor during October (figure 523). Slight variations in the lava lake were noted throughout the month. HVO reported that around 0600 on 3 October the level of the lava lake has lowered slightly. Overflight measurements taken on 5 October indicated that the crater floor was infilled a total of about 143 m and that 111 million cubic meters of lava had been effused since September 2021. During 6-7 October the lake gradually rose 0.5 m. Sulfur dioxide measurements made on 22 October had an emission rate of 700 t/d. Another overflight taken on 28 October showed that there was little to no change in the elevation of the crater floor: the crater floor was infilled a total of 143 m and 111 million cubic meters of lava had erupted since the start of the eruption.

Figure 523. Photo of the Halema’uma’u crater at Kīlauea looking east from the crater rim showing the active lava lake, with active lava ponds to the SE (top) and west (bottom middle) taken on 5 October 2022. The western vent complex is visible through the gas at the bottom center of the photo. Courtesy of N. Deligne, USGS.

Activity during November 2022. Activity remained low during November, though HVO reported that lava from the western vent continued to effuse into the active lava lake and onto the crater floor throughout the month. The rate of sulfur dioxide emissions during November ranged from 300-600 t/d, the higher amount of which occurred on 9 November.

Activity during December 2022. Similar low activity was reported during December, with lava effusing from the western vent into the active lava lake and onto the crater floor. During 4-5 December the active part of the lava lake was slightly variable in elevation and fluctuated within 1 m. On 9 December HVO reported that lava was no longer erupting from the western vent in the Halema’uma’u crater and that sulfur dioxide emissions had returned to near pre-eruption background levels; during 10-11 December, the lava lake had completely crusted over, and no incandescence was visible (figure 524). Time lapse camera images covering the 4-10 December showed that the crater floor showed weak deflation and no inflation. Some passive events of crustal overturning were reported during 14-15 December, which brought fresh incandescent lava to the lake surface. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was approximately 200 t/d on 14 December. A smaller overturn event on 17 December and another that occurred around 0000 and into the morning of 20 December were also detected. A small seismic swarm was later detected on 30 December.

Figure 524. Photo of Halema’uma’u crater at Kīlauea showing a mostly solidified lake surface during the early morning of 10 December 2022. Courtesy of J. Bard, USGS.

Geologic Background. Kilauea overlaps the E flank of the massive Mauna Loa shield volcano in the island of Hawaii. Eruptions are prominent in Polynesian legends; written documentation since 1820 records frequent summit and flank lava flow eruptions interspersed with periods of long-term lava lake activity at Halemaumau crater in the summit caldera until 1924. The 3 x 5 km caldera was formed in several stages about 1,500 years ago and during the 18th century; eruptions have also originated from the lengthy East and Southwest rift zones, which extend to the ocean in both directions. About 90% of the surface of the basaltic shield volcano is formed of lava flows less than about 1,100 years old; 70% of the surface is younger than 600 years. The long-term eruption from the East rift zone between 1983 and 2018 produced lava flows covering more than 100 km2, destroyed hundreds of houses, and added new coastline.

Information Contacts: Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), U.S. Geological Survey, PO Box 51, Hawai'i National Park, HI 96718, USA (URL: http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/).

Nyamulagira (also known as Nyamuragira) is a shield volcano in the Democratic Republic of Congo with the summit truncated by a small 2 x 2.3 km caldera with walls up to about 100 m high. Documented eruptions have occurred within the summit caldera, as well as from numerous flank fissures and cinder cones. The current eruption period began in April 2018 and has more recently been characterized by summit crater lava flows and thermal activity (BGVN 48:05). This report describes lava flows and variable thermal activity during May through October 2023, based on information from the Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) and various satellite data.

Lava lake activity continued during May. The MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) system recorded moderate-to-strong thermal activity throughout the reporting period; activity was more intense during May and October and relatively weaker from June through September (figure 95). The MODVOLC thermal algorithm, detected a total of 209 thermal alerts. There were 143 hotspots detected during May, eight during June, nine during September, and 49 during October. This activity was also reflected in infrared satellite images, where a lava flow was visible in the NW part of the crater on 7 May and strong activity was seen in the center of the crater on 4 October (figure 96). Another infrared satellite image taken on 12 May showed still active lava flows along the NW margin of the crater. According to OVG lava effusions were active during 7-29 May and moved to the N and NW parts of the crater beginning on 9 May. Strong summit crater incandescence was visible from Goma (27 km S) during the nights of 17, 19, and 20 May (figure 97). On 17 May there was an increase in eruptive activity, which peaked at 0100 on 20 May. Notable sulfur dioxide plumes drifted NW and W during 19-20 May (figure 98). Drone footage acquired in partnership with the USGS (United States Geological Survey) on 20 May captured images of narrow lava flows that traveled about 100 m down the W flank (figure 99). Data from the Rumangabo seismic station indicated a decreasing trend in activity during 17-21 May. Although weather clouds prevented clear views of the summit, a strong thermal signature on the NW flank was visible in an infrared satellite image on 22 May, based on an infrared satellite image. On 28 May the lava flows on the upper W flank began to cool and solidify. By 29 May seismicity returned to levels similar to those recorded before the 17 May increase. Lava effusion continued but was confined to the summit crater; periodic crater incandescence was observed.

Figure 95. Moderate-to-strong thermal anomalies were detected at Nyamulagira during May through October 2023, as shown on this MIROVA graph (Log Radiative Power). During late May, the intensity of the anomalies gradually decreased and remained at relatively lower levels during mid-June through mid-September. During mid-September, the power of the anomalies gradually increased again. The stronger activity is reflective of active lava effusions. Courtesy of MIROVA.

Figure 96. Infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite images showing a constant thermal anomaly of variable intensities in the summit crater of Nyamulagira on 7 May 2023 (top left), 21 June 2023 (top right), 21 July 2023 (bottom left), and 4 October 2023 (bottom right). Although much of the crater was obscured by weather clouds on 7 May, a possible lava flow was visible in the NW part of the crater. Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Figure 97. Photo of intense nighttime crater incandescence at Nyamulagira as seen from Goma (27 km S) on the evening of 19 May 2023. Courtesy of Charles Balagizi, OVG.

Figure 98. Two strong sulfur dioxide plumes were detected at Nyamulagira and drifted W on 19 (left) and 20 (right) May 2023. Courtesy of NASA Global Sulfur Dioxide Monitoring Page.

Figure 99. A map (top) showing the active vents (yellow pins) and direction of active lava flows (W) at Nyamulagira at Virunga National Park on 20 May 2023. Drone footage (bottom) also shows the fresh lava flows traveling downslope to the W on 20 May 2023. Courtesy of USGS via OVG.

Low-level activity was noted during June through October. On 1 June OVG reported that seismicity remained at lower levels and that crater incandescence had been absent for three days, though infrared satellite imagery showed continued lava effusion in the summit crater. The lava flows on the flanks covered an estimated 0.6 km². Satellite imagery continued to show thermal activity confined to the lava lake through October (figure 96), although no lava flows or significant sulfur dioxide emissions were reported.

Geologic Background. Africa's most active volcano, Nyamulagira (also known as Nyamuragira), is a massive high-potassium basaltic shield about 25 km N of Lake Kivu and 13 km NNW of the steep-sided Nyiragongo volcano. The summit is truncated by a small 2 x 2.3 km caldera that has walls up to about 100 m high. Documented eruptions have occurred within the summit caldera, as well as from the numerous flank fissures and cinder cones. A lava lake in the summit crater, active since at least 1921, drained in 1938, at the time of a major flank eruption. Recent lava flows extend down the flanks more than 30 km from the summit as far as Lake Kivu; extensive lava flows from this volcano have covered 1,500 km2 of the western branch of the East African Rift.

Information Contacts: Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG), Departement de Geophysique, Centre de Recherche en Sciences Naturelles, Lwiro, D.S. Bukavu, DR Congo; Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); NASA Global Sulfur Dioxide Monitoring Page, Atmospheric Chemistry and Dynamics Laboratory, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (NASA/GSFC), 8800 Greenbelt Road, Goddard, Maryland, USA (URL: https://so2.gsfc.nasa.gov/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/); Charles Balagizi, Goma Volcano Observatory, Departement de Geophysique, Centre de Recherche en Sciences Naturelles, Lwiro, D.S. Bukavu, DR Congo.

The remote volcano of Bagana is located in central Bougainville Island, Papua New Guinea. Recorded eruptions date back to 1842 and activity has consisted of effusive activity that has built a small lava dome in the summit crater and occasional explosions that produced pyroclastic flows. The most recent eruption has been ongoing since February 2000 and has produced occasional explosions, ash plumes, and lava flows. More recently, activity has been characterized by ongoing effusive activity and ash emissions (BGVN 48:04). This report updates activity from April through September 2023 that has consisted of explosions, ash plumes, ashfall, and lava flows, using information from the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and satellite data.

An explosive eruption was reported on 7 July that generated a large gas-and-ash plume to high altitudes and caused significant ashfall in local communities; the eruption plume had reached upper tropospheric (16-18 km altitude) altitudes by 2200, according to satellite images. Sulfur dioxide plumes were detected in satellite images on 8 July and indicated that the plume was likely a mixture of gas, ice, and ash. A report issued by the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) (Torokina District, Education Section) on 10 July noted that significant ash began falling during 2000-2100 on 7 July and covered most areas in the Vuakovi, Gotana (9 km SW), Koromaketo, Laruma (25 km W) and Atsilima (27 km NW) villages. Pyroclastic flows also occurred, according to ground-based reports; small deposits confined to one drainage were inspected by RVO during an overflight on 17 July and were confirmed to be from the 7 July event. Ashfall continued until 10 July and covered vegetation, which destroyed bushes and gardens and contaminated rivers and streams.

RVO reported another eruption on 14 July. The Darwin VAAC stated that an explosive event started around 0830 on 15 July and produced an ash plume that rose to 16.5 km altitude by 1000 and drifted N, according to satellite images. The plume continued to drift N and remained visible through 1900, and by 2150 it had dissipated.

Ashfall likely from both the 7 and 15 July events impacted about 8,111 people in Torokina (20 km SW), including Tsito/Vuakovi, Gotana, Koromaketo, Kenaia, Longkogari, Kenbaki, Piva (13 km SW), and Atsinima, and in the Tsitovi district, according to ABG. Significant ashfall was also reported in Ruruvu (22 km N) in the Wakunai District of Central Bougainville, though the thickness of these deposits could not be confirmed. An evacuation was called for the villages in Wakunai, where heavy ashfall had contaminated water sources; the communities of Ruruvu, Togarau, Kakarapaia, Karauturi, Atao, and Kuritaturi were asked to evacuate to a disaster center at the Wakunai District Station, and communities in Torokina were asked to evacuate to the Piva District station. According to a news article, more than 7,000 people needed temporary accommodations, with about 1,000 people in evacuation shelters. Ashfall had deposited over a broad area, contaminating water supplies, affecting crops, and collapsing some roofs and houses in rural areas. Schools were temporarily shut down. Intermittent ash emissions continued through the end of July and drifted NNW, NW, and SW. Fine ashfall was reported on the coast of Torokina, and ash plumes also drifted toward Laruma and Atsilima.

A small explosive eruption occurred at 2130 on 28 July that ejected material from the crater vents, according to reports from Torokina, in addition to a lava flow that contained two lobes. A second explosion was detected at 2157. Incandescence from the lava flow was visible from Piva as it descended the W flank around 2000 on 29 July (figure 47). The Darwin VAAC reported that a strong thermal anomaly was visible in satellite images during 30-31 July and that ash emissions rose to 2.4 km altitude and drifted WSW on 30 July. A ground report from RVO described localized emissions at 0900 on 31 July.

Figure 47. Infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite images showed weak thermal anomalies at the summit crater of Bagana on 12 April 2023 (top left), 27 May 2023 (top right), 31 July 2023 (bottom left), and 19 September 2023 (bottom right). A strong thermal anomaly was detected through weather clouds on 31 July and extended W from the summit crater. Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

The Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes were identified in satellite imagery at 0800 and 1220 on 12 August and rose to 2.1 km and 3 km altitude and drifted NW and W, respectively. A news report stated that aid was sent to more than 6,300 people that were adversely affected by the eruption. Photos taken during 17-19 August showed ash emissions rising no higher than 1 km above the summit and drifting SE. A small explosion generated an ash plume during the morning of 19 August. Deposits from small pyroclastic flows were also captured in the photos. Satellite images captured lava flows and pyroclastic flow deposits. Two temporary seismic stations were installed near Bagana on 17 August at distances of 7 km WSW (Vakovi station) and 11 km SW (Kepox station). The Kepox station immediately started to record continuous, low-frequency background seismicity.

Satellite data. Little to no thermal activity was detected during April through mid-July 2023; only one anomaly was recorded during early April and one during early June, according to MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) data (figure 48). Thermal activity increased in both power and frequency during mid-July through September, although there were still some short gaps in detected activity. MODVOLC also detected increased thermal activity during August; thermal hotspots were detected a total of five times on 19, 20, and 27 August. Weak thermal anomalies were also captured in infrared satellite images on clear weather days throughout the reporting period on 7, 12, and 17 April, 27 May, 1, 6, 16, and 31 July, and 19 September (figure 48); a strong thermal anomaly was visible on 31 July. Distinct sulfur dioxide plumes that drifted generally NW were intermittently captured by the TROPOMI instrument on the Sentinel-5P satellite and sometimes exceeded two Dobson Units (DUs) (figure 49).

Figure 48. Low thermal activity was detected at Bagana during April through mid-July 2023, as shown on this MIROVA graph. In mid-July, activity began to increase in both frequency and power, which continued through September. There were still some pauses in activity during late July, early August, and late September, but a cluster of thermal activity was detected during late August. Courtesy of MIROVA.

Figure 49. Distinct sulfur dioxide plumes rising from Bagana on 15 July 2023 (top left), 16 July 2023 (top right), 17 July 2023 (bottom left), and 17 August 2023 (bottom right). These plumes all generally drifted NW; a particularly notable plume exceeded 2 Dobson Units (DUs) on 15 July. Data is from the TROPOMI instrument on the Sentinel-5P satellite. Courtesy of NASA Global Sulfur Dioxide Monitoring Page.0

Geologic Background. Bagana volcano, in a remote portion of central Bougainville Island, is frequently active. This massive symmetrical cone was largely constructed by an accumulation of viscous andesitic lava flows. The entire edifice could have been constructed in about 300 years at its present rate of lava production. Eruptive activity is characterized by non-explosive effusion of viscous lava that maintains a small lava dome in the summit crater, although occasional explosive activity produces pyroclastic flows. Lava flows with tongue-shaped lobes up to 50 m thick and prominent levees descend the flanks on all sides.

Information Contacts: Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO), Geohazards Management Division, Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management (DMPGM), PO Box 3386, Kokopo, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea; Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), Bureau of Meteorology, Northern Territory Regional Office, PO Box 40050, Casuarina, NT 0811, Australia (URL: http://www.bom.gov.au/info/vaac/); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); NASA Global Sulfur Dioxide Monitoring Page, Atmospheric Chemistry and Dynamics Laboratory, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (NASA/GSFC), 8800 Greenbelt Road, Goddard, Maryland, USA (URL: https://so2.gsfc.nasa.gov/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/); Autonomous Bougainville Government, P.O Box 322, Buka, AROB, PNG (URL: https://abg.gov.pg/); Andrew Tupper (Twitter: @andrewcraigtupp); Simon Carn, Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, MI 49931, USA (URL: http://www.volcarno.com/, Twitter: @simoncarn); Radio NZ (URL: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/pacific/494464/more-than-7-000-people-in-bougainville-need-temporary-accommodation-after-eruption); USAID, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington DC 20004, USA (URL: https://www.usaid.gov/pacific-islands/press-releases/aug-08-2023-united-states-provides-immediate-emergency-assistance-support-communities-affected-mount-bagana-volcanic-eruptions).

Mayon is located in the Philippines and has steep upper slopes capped by a small summit crater. Historical eruptions date back to 1616 CE that have been characterized by Strombolian eruptions, lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and mudflows. Eruptions mostly originated from a central conduit. Pyroclastic flows and mudflows have commonly descended many of the approximately 40 drainages that surround the volcano. The most recent eruption occurred during June through October 2022 and consisted of lava dome growth and gas-and-steam emissions (BGVN 47:12). A new eruption was reported during late April 2023 and has included lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, ash emissions, and seismicity. This report covers activity during April through September 2023 based on daily bulletins from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

During April through September 2023, PHIVOLCS reported near-daily rockfall events, frequent volcanic earthquakes, and sulfur dioxide measurements. Gas-and-steam emissions rose 100-900 m above the crater and drifted in different directions. Nighttime crater incandescence was often visible during clear weather and was accompanied by incandescent avalanches of material. Activity notably increased during June when lava flows were reported on the S, SE, and E flanks (figure 52). The MIROVA graph (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) showed strong thermal activity coincident with these lava flows, which remained active through September (figure 53). According to the MODVOLC thermal algorithm, a total of 110 thermal alerts were detected during the reporting period: 17 during June, 40 during July, 27 during August, and 26 during September. During early June, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) started to occur more frequently.

Figure 52. Infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite images show strong lava flows descending the S, SE, and E flanks of Mayon on 13 June 2023 (top left), 23 June 2023 (top right), 8 July 2023 (bottom left), and 7 August 2023 (bottom right). Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Figure 53. Strong thermal activity was detected at Mayon during early June through September, according to this MIROVA graph (Log Radiative Power) due to the presence of active lava flows on the SE, S, and E flanks. Courtesy of MIROVA.

Low activity was reported during much of April and May; gas-and-steam emissions rose 100-900 m above the crater and generally drifted in different directions. A total of 52 rockfall events and 18 volcanic earthquakes were detected during April and 147 rockfall events and 13 volcanic events during May. Sulfur dioxide flux measurements ranged between 400-576 tons per day (t/d) during April, the latter of which was measured on 29 April and between 162-343 t/d during May, the latter of which was measured on 13 May.

Activity during June increased, characterized by lava flows, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), crater incandescence and incandescent rockfall events, gas-and-steam emissions, and continued seismicity. Weather clouds often prevented clear views of the summit, but during clear days, moderate gas-and-steam emissions rose 100-2,500 m above the crater and drifted in multiple directions. A total of 6,237 rockfall events and 288 volcanic earthquakes were detected. The rockfall events often deposited material on the S and SE flanks within 700-1,500 m of the summit crater and ash from the events drifted SW, S, SE, NE, and E. Sulfur dioxide emissions ranged between 149-1,205 t/d, the latter of which was measured on 10 June. Short-term observations from EDM and electronic tiltmeter monitoring indicated that the upper slopes were inflating since February 2023. Longer-term ground deformation parameters based on EDM, precise leveling, continuous GPS, and electronic tilt monitoring indicated that the volcano remained inflated, especially on the NW and SE flanks. At 1000 on 5 June the Volcano Alert Level (VAL) was raised to 2 (on a 0-5 scale). PHIVOLCS noted that although low-level volcanic earthquakes, ground deformation, and volcanic gas emissions indicated unrest, the steep increase in rockfall frequency may indicate increased dome activity.

A total of 151 dome-collapse PDCs occurred during 8-9 and 11-30 June, traveled 500-2,000 m, and deposited material on the S flank within 2 km of the summit crater. During 8-9 June the VAL was raised to 3. At approximately 1947 on 11 June lava flow activity was reported; two lobes traveled within 500 m from the crater and deposited material on the S (Mi-isi), SE (Bonga), and E (Basud) flanks. Weak seismicity accompanied the lava flow and slight inflation on the upper flanks. This lava flow remained active through 30 June, moving down the S and SE flank as far as 2.5 km and 1.8 km, respectively and depositing material up to 3.3 km from the crater. During 15-16 June traces of ashfall from the PDCs were reported in Sitio Buga, Nabonton, City of Ligao and Purok, and San Francisco, Municipality of Guinobatan. During 28-29 June there were two PDCs generated by the collapse of the lava flow front, which generated a light-brown ash plume 1 km high. Satellite monitors detected significant concentrations of sulfur dioxide beginning on 29 June. On 30 June PDCs primarily affected the Basud Gully on the E flank, the largest of which occurred at 1301 and lasted eight minutes, based on the seismic record. Four PDCs generated between 1800 and 2000 that lasted approximately four minutes each traveled 3-4 km on the E flank and generated an ash plume that rose 1 km above the crater and drifted N and NW. Ashfall was recorded in Tabaco City.

Similar strong activity continued during July; slow lava effusion remained active on the S and SE flanks and traveled as far as 2.8 km and 2.8 km, respectively and material was deposited as far as 4 km from the crater. There was a total of 6,983 rockfall events and 189 PDCs that affected the S, SE, and E flanks. The volcano network detected a total of 2,124 volcanic earthquakes. Continuous gas-and-steam emissions rose 200-2,000 m above the crater and drifted in multiple directions. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 792-4,113 t/d, the latter of which was measured on 28 July. During 2-4 July three PDCs were generated from the collapse of the lava flow and resulting light brown plumes rose 200-300 m above the crater. Continuous tremor pulses were reported beginning at 1547 on 3 July through 7 July at 1200, at 2300 on 8 July and going through 0300 on 10 July, and at 2300 on 16 July, as recorded by the seismic network. During 6-9 July there were 10 lava flow-collapse-related PDCs that generated light brown plumes 300-500 m above the crater. During 10-11 July light ashfall was reported in some areas of Mabinit, Legazpi City, Budiao and Salvacion, Daraga, and Camalig, Albay. By 18 July the lava flow advanced 600 m on the E flank as well.

During 1733 on 18 July and 0434 on 19 July PHIVOLCS reported 30 “ashing” events, which are degassing events accompanied by audible thunder-like sounds and entrained ash at the crater, which produced short, dark plumes that drifted SW. These events each lasted 20-40 seconds, and plume heights ranged from 150-300 m above the crater, as recorded by seismic, infrasound, visual, and thermal monitors. Three more ashing events occurred during 19-20 July. Short-term observations from electronic tilt and GPS monitoring indicate deflation on the E lower flanks in early July and inflation on the NW middle flanks during the third week of July. Longer-term ground deformation parameters from EDM, precise leveling, continuous GPS, and electronic tilt monitoring indicated that the volcano was still generally inflated relative to baseline levels. A short-lived lava pulse lasted 28 seconds at 1956 on 21 July, which was accompanied by seismic and infrasound signals. By 22 July, the only lava flow that remained active was on the SE flank, and continued to extend 3.4 km, while those on the S and E flanks weakened markedly. One ashing event was detected during 30-31 July, whereas there were 57 detected during 31 July-1 August; according to PHIVOLCS beginning at approximately 1800 on 31 July eruptive activity was dominated by phases of intermittent ashing, as well as increased in the apparent rates of lava effusion from the summit crater. The ashing phases consisted of discrete events recorded as low-frequency volcanic earthquakes (LFVQ) typically 30 seconds in duration, based on seismic and infrasound signals. Gray ash plume rose 100 m above the crater and generally drifted NE. Shortly after these ashing events began, new lava began to effuse rapidly from the crater, feeding the established flowed on the SE, E, and E flanks and generating frequent rockfall events.

Intensified unrest persisted during August. There was a total of 4,141 rockfall events, 2,881 volcanic earthquakes, which included volcanic tremor events, 32 ashing events, and 101 PDCs detected throughout the month. On clear weather days, gas-and-steam emissions rose 300-1,500 m above the crater and drifted in different directions (figure 54). Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 735-4,756 t/d, the higher value of which was measured on 16 August. During 1-2 August the rate of lava effusion decreased, but continued to feed the flows on the SE, S, and E flanks, maintaining their advances to 3.4 km, 2.8 km, and 1.1 km from the crater, respectively (figure 55). Rockfall and PDCs generated by collapses at the lava flow margins and from the summit dome deposited material within 4 km of the crater. During 3-4 August there were 10 tremor events detected that lasted 1-4 minutes. Short-lived lava pulse lasted 35 seconds and was accompanied by seismic and infrasound signals at 0442 on 6 August. Seven collapses were recorded at the front of the lava flow during 12-14 August.

Figure 54. Photo of Mayon showing a white gas-and-steam plume rising 800-1,500 m above the crater at 0645 on 25 August. Courtesy of William Rogers.

Figure 55. Photo of Mayon facing N showing incandescent lava flows and summit crater incandescence taken at 1830 on 25 August 2023. Courtesy of William Rogers.

During September, similar activity of slow lava effusion, PDCs, gas-and-steam emissions, and seismicity continued. There was a total of 4,452 rockfall events, 329 volcanic earthquakes, which included volcanic tremor events, two ashing events, and 85 PDCs recorded throughout the month. On clear weather days, gas-and-steam emissions rose 100-1,500 m above the crater and drifted in multiple directions. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 609-2,252 t/d, the higher average of which was measured on 6 September. Slow lava effusion continued advancing on the SE, S, and E flanks, maintaining lengths of 3.4 km, 2.8 km, and 1.1 km, respectively. Rockfall and PDC events generated by collapses along the lava flow margins and at the summit dome deposited material within 4 km of the crater.

Geologic Background. Symmetrical Mayon, which rises above the Albay Gulf NW of Legazpi City, is the most active volcano of the Philippines. The steep upper slopes are capped by a small summit crater. Recorded eruptions since 1616 CE range from Strombolian to basaltic Plinian, with cyclical activity beginning with basaltic eruptions, followed by longer periods of andesitic lava flows. Eruptions occur predominately from the central conduit and have also produced lava flows that travel far down the flanks. Pyroclastic density currents and mudflows have commonly swept down many of the approximately 40 ravines that radiate from the summit and have often damaged populated lowland areas. A violent eruption in 1814 killed more than 1,200 people and devastated several towns.

Information Contacts: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Department of Science and Technology, University of the Philippines Campus, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines (URL: http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/); William Rogers, Legazpi City, Albay Province, Philippines.

Nishinoshima, located about 1,000 km S of Tokyo, is a small island in the Ogasawara Arc in Japan. The island is the summit of a massive submarine volcano that has prominent submarine peaks to the S, W, and NE. Eruptions date back to 1973 and the current eruption period began in October 2022. Recent activity has consisted of small ash plumes and fumarolic activity (BGVN 48:07). This report covers activity during May through August 2023, using information from monthly reports of the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) monthly reports and satellite data.

Activity during May through June was relatively low. The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) did overflights on 14 and 22 June and reported white gas-and-steam emissions rising 600 m and 1,200 m from the central crater of the pyroclastic cone, respectively (figure 125). In addition, multiple white gas-and-steam emissions rose from the inner rim of the W side of the crater and from the SE flank of the pyroclastic cone. Discolored brown-to-green water was observed around almost the entire perimeter of the island; on 22 June light green discolored water was observed off the S coast of the island.

Figure 125. A white gas-and-steam plume rising 600 m above the crater of Nishinoshima at 1404 on 14 June 2023 (left) and 1,200 m above the crater at 1249 on 22 June 2023 (right). Courtesy of JCG via JMA (monthly reports of activity at Nishinoshima, June, 2023).

Observations from the Himawari meteorological satellite confirmed an eruption on 9 and 10 July. An eruption plume rose 1.6 km above the crater and drifted N around 1300 on 9 July. Satellite images acquired at 1420 and 2020 on 9 July and at 0220 on 10 July showed continuing emissions that rose 1.3-1.6 km above the crater and drifted NE and N. The Tokyo VAAC reported that an ash plume seen by a pilot and identified in a satellite image at 0630 on 21 July rose to 3 km altitude and drifted S.

Aerial observations conducted by JCG on 8 August showed a white-and-gray plume rising from the central crater of the pyroclastic cone, and multiple white gas-and-steam emissions were rising from the inner edge of the western crater and along the NW-SE flanks of the island (figure 126). Brown-to-green discolored water was also noted around the perimeter of the island.

Figure 126. Aerial photo of Nishinoshima showing a white-and-gray plume rising from the central crater taken at 1350 on 8 August 2023.

Intermittent low-to-moderate power thermal anomalies were recorded in the MIROVA graph (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), showing an increase in both frequency and power beginning in July (figure 127). This increase in activity coincides with eruptive activity on 9 and 10 July, characterized by eruption plumes. According to the MODVOLC thermal alert algorithm, one thermal hotspot was recorded on 20 July. Weak thermal anomalies were also detected in infrared satellite imagery, accompanied by strong gas-and-steam plumes (figure 128).

Figure 127. Low-to-moderate power thermal anomalies were detected at Nishinoshima during May through August 2023, showing an increase in both frequency and power in July, according to this MIROVA graph (Log Radiative Power). Courtesy of MIROVA.

Figure 128. Infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite images showing a small thermal anomaly at the crater of Nishinoshima on 30 June 2023 (top left), 3 July 2023 (top right), 7 August 2023 (bottom left), and 27 August 2023 (bottom right). Strong gas-and-steam plumes accompanied this activity, extending NW, NE, and SW. Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Geologic Background. The small island of Nishinoshima was enlarged when several new islands coalesced during an eruption in 1973-74. Multiple eruptions that began in 2013 completely covered the previous exposed surface and continued to enlarge the island. The island is the summit of a massive submarine volcano that has prominent peaks to the S, W, and NE. The summit of the southern cone rises to within 214 m of the ocean surface 9 km SSE.

Information Contacts: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), 1-3-4 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8122, Japan (URL: http://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html); Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), 1-3-4 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8122, Japan (URL: http://ds.data.jma.go.jp/svd/vaac/data/); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/).

Krakatau is located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, Indonesia. Caldera collapse during the catastrophic 1883 eruption destroyed Danan and Perbuwatan cones and left only a remnant of Rakata. The post-collapse cone of Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau) was constructed within the 1883 caldera at a point between the former Danan and Perbuwatan cones; it has been the site of frequent eruptions since 1927. The current eruption period began in May 2021 and has recently consisted of Strombolian eruptions and ash plumes (BGVN 48:07). This report describes lower levels of activity consisting of ash and white gas-and-steam plumes during May through August 2023, based on information provided by the Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, referred to as Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG), MAGMA Indonesia, and satellite data.

Activity was relatively low during May and June. Daily white gas-and-steam emissions rose 25-200 m above the crater and drifted in different directions. Five ash plumes were detected at 0519 on 10 May, 1241 on 11 May, 0920 on 12 May, 2320 on 12 May, and at 0710 on 13 May, and rose 1-2.5 km above the crater and drifted SW. A webcam image taken on 12 May showed ejection of incandescent material above the vent. A total of nine ash plumes were detected during 6-11 June: at 1434 and 00220 on 6 and 7 June the ash plumes rose 500 m above the crater and drifted NW, at 1537 on 8 June the ash plume rose 1 km above the crater and drifted SW, at 0746 and at 0846 on 9 June the ash plumes rose 800 m and 3 km above the crater and drifted SW, respectively, at 0423, 1431, and 1750 on 10 June the ash plumes rose 2 km, 1.5 km, and 3.5 km above the crater and drifted NW, respectively, and at 0030 on 11 June an ash plume rose 2 km above the crater and drifted NW. Webcam images taken on 10 and 11 June at 0455 and 0102, respectively, showed incandescent material ejected above the vent. On 19 June an ash plume at 0822 rose 1.5 km above the crater and drifted SE.

Similar low activity of white gas-and-steam emissions and few ash plumes were reported during July and August. Daily white gas-and-steam emissions rose 25-300 m above the crater and drifted in multiple directions. Three ash plumes were reported at 0843, 0851, and 0852 on 20 July that rose 500-2,000 m above the crater and drifted NW.

The MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) graph of MODIS thermal anomaly data showed intermittent low-to-moderate power thermal anomalies during May through August 2023 (figure 140). Although activity was often obscured by weather clouds, a thermal anomaly was visible in an infrared satellite image of the crater on 12 May, accompanied by an eruption plume that drifted SW (figure 141).

Figure 140. Intermittent low-to-moderate power thermal anomalies were detected at Krakatau during May through August 2023, based on this MIROVA graph (Log Radiative Power). Courtesy of MIROVA.

Figure 141. A single thermal anomaly (bright yellow-orange) was visible at Krakatau in this infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite image taken on 12 May 2023. An eruption plume accompanied the thermal anomaly and drifted SW. Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Geologic Background. The renowned Krakatau (frequently mis-named as Krakatoa) volcano lies in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra. Collapse of an older edifice, perhaps in 416 or 535 CE, formed a 7-km-wide caldera. Remnants of that volcano are preserved in Verlaten and Lang Islands; subsequently the Rakata, Danan, and Perbuwatan cones were formed, coalescing to create the pre-1883 Krakatau Island. Caldera collapse during the catastrophic 1883 eruption destroyed Danan and Perbuwatan, and left only a remnant of Rakata. This eruption caused more than 36,000 fatalities, most as a result of tsunamis that swept the adjacent coastlines of Sumatra and Java. Pyroclastic surges traveled 40 km across the Sunda Strait and reached the Sumatra coast. After a quiescence of less than a half century, the post-collapse cone of Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau) was constructed within the 1883 caldera at a point between the former Danan and Perbuwatan cones. Anak Krakatau has been the site of frequent eruptions since 1927.

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); MAGMA Indonesia, Kementerian Energi dan Sumber Daya Mineral (URL: https://magma.esdm.go.id/v1); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/).

Villarrica, in central Chile, consists of a 2-km-wide caldera that formed about 3,500 years ago and is located at the base of the presently active cone at the NW margin of a 6-km-wide caldera. Historical eruptions eruptions date back to 1558 and have been characterized by mild-to-moderate explosive activity with occasional lava effusions. The current eruption period began in December 2014 and has recently consisted of nighttime crater incandescence, ash emissions, and seismicity (BGVN 48:04). This report covers activity during April through September 2023 and describes occasional Strombolian activity, gas-and-ash emissions, and nighttime crater incandescence. Information for this report primarily comes from the Southern Andes Volcano Observatory (Observatorio Volcanológico de Los Andes del Sur, OVDAS), part of Chile's National Service of Geology and Mining (Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería, SERNAGEOMIN) and satellite data.

Seismicity during April consisted of long period (LP) events and tremor (TRE); a total of 9,413 LP-type events and 759 TR-type events were detected throughout the month. Nighttime crater incandescence persisted and was visible in the degassing column. Sulfur dioxide data was obtained using Differential Absorption Optical Spectroscopy Equipment (DOAS) that showed an average value of 1,450 ± 198 tons per day (t/d) during 1-15 April and 1,129 ± 201 t/d during 16-30 April, with a maximum daily value of 2,784 t/d on 9 April. Gas-and-steam emissions of variable intensities rose above the active crater as high as 1.3 km above the crater on 13 April. Strombolian explosions were not observed and there was a slight decrease in the lava lake level.

There were 14,123 LP-type events and 727 TR-type events detected during May. According to sulfur dioxide measurements taken with DOAS equipment, the active crater emitted an average value of 1,826 ± 482 t/d during 1-15 May and 912 ± 41 t/d during 16-30 May, with a daily maximum value of 5,155 t/d on 13 May. Surveillance cameras showed continuous white gas-and-steam emissions that rose as high as 430 m above the crater on 27 May. Nighttime incandescence illuminated the gas column less than 300 m above the crater rim was and no pyroclastic emissions were reported. A landslide was identified on 13 May on the E flank of the volcano 50 m from the crater rim and extending 300 m away; SERNAGEOMIN noted that this event may have occurred on 12 May. During the morning of 27 and 28 May minor Strombolian explosions characterized by incandescent ejecta were recorded at the crater rim; the last reported Strombolian explosions had occurred at the end of March.

Seismic activity during June consisted of five volcano-tectonic (VT)-type events, 21,606 LP-type events, and 2,085 TR-type events. The average value of sulfur dioxide flux obtained by DOAS equipment was 1,420 ± 217 t/d during 1-15 June and 2,562 ± 804 t/d, with a maximum daily value of 4,810 t/d on 17 June. White gas-and-steam emissions rose less than 480 m above the crater; frequent nighttime crater incandescence was reflected in the degassing plume. On 12 June an emission rose 100 m above the crater and drifted NNW. On 15 June one or several emissions resulted in ashfall to the NE as far as 5.5 km from the crater, based on a Skysat satellite image. Several Strombolian explosions occurred within the crater; activity on 15 June was higher energy and ejected blocks 200-300 m on the NE slope. Surveillance cameras showed white gas-and-steam emissions rising 480 m above the crater on 16 June. On 19 and 24 June low-intensity Strombolian activity was observed, ejecting material as far as 200 m from the center of the crater to the E.

During July, seismicity included 29,319 LP-type events, 3,736 TR-type events, and two VT-type events. DOAS equipment recorded two days of sulfur dioxide emissions of 4,220 t/d and 1,009 t/d on 1 and 13 July, respectively. Constant nighttime incandescence was also recorded and was particularly noticeable when accompanied by eruptive columns on 12 and 16 July. Minor explosive events were detected in the crater. According to Skysat satellite images taken on 12, 13, and 16 July, ashfall deposits were identified 155 m S of the crater. According to POVI, incandescence was visible from two vents on the crater floor around 0336 on 12 July. Gas-and-ash emissions rose as high as 1.2 km above the crater on 13 July and drifted E and NW. A series of gas-and-steam pulses containing some ash deposited material on the upper E flank around 1551 on 13 July. During 16-31 July, average sulfur dioxide emissions of 1,679 ± 406 t/d were recorded, with a maximum daily value of 2,343 t/d on 28 July. Fine ash emissions were also reported on 16, 17, and 23 July.

Seismicity persisted during August, characterized by 27,011 LP-type events, 3,323 TR-type events, and three VT-type events. The average value of sulfur dioxide measurements taken during 1-15 August was 1,642 ± 270 t/d and 2,207 ± 4,549 t/d during 16-31 August, with a maximum daily value of 3,294 t/d on 27 August. Nighttime crater incandescence remained visible in degassing columns. White gas-and-steam emissions rose 480 m above the crater on 6 August. According to a Skysat satellite image from 6 August, ash accumulation was observed proximal to the crater and was mainly distributed toward the E slope. White gas-and-steam emissions rose 320 m above the crater on 26 August. Nighttime incandescence and Strombolian activity that generated ash emissions were reported on 27 August.

Seismicity during September was characterized by five VT-type events, 12,057 LP-type events, and 2,058 TR-type events. Nighttime incandescence persisted. On 2 September an ash emission rose 180 m above the crater and drifted SE at 1643 (figure 125) and a white gas-and-steam plume rose 320 m above the crater. According to the Buenos Aires VAAC, periods of continuous gas-and-ash emissions were visible in webcam images from 1830 on 2 September to 0110 on 3 September. Strombolian activity was observed on 2 September and during the early morning of 3 September, the latter event of which generated an ash emission that rose 60 m above the crater and drifted 100 m from the center of the crater to the NE and SW. Ashfall was reported to the SE and S as far as 750 m from the crater. The lava lake was active during 3-4 September and lava fountaining was visible for the first time since 26 March 2023, according to POVI. Fountains captured in webcam images at 2133 on 3 September and at 0054 on 4 September rose as high as 60 m above the crater rim and ejected material onto the upper W flank. Sulfur dioxide flux of 1,730 t/d and 1,281 t/d was measured on 3 and 4 September, respectively, according to data obtained by DOAS equipment.

Figure 125. Webcam image of a gray ash emission rising above Villarrica on 2 September 2023 at 1643 (local time) that rose 180 m above the crater and drifted SE. Courtesy of SERNAGEOMIN (Reporte Especial de Actividad Volcanica (REAV), Region De La Araucania y Los Rios, Volcan Villarrica, 02 de septiembre de 2023, 17:05 Hora local).

Strong Strombolian activity and larger gas-and-ash plumes were reported during 18-20 September. On 18 September activity was also associated with energetic LP-type events and notable sulfur dioxide fluxes (as high as 4,277 t/d). On 19 September Strombolian activity and incandescence were observed. On 20 September at 0914 ash emissions rose 50 m above the crater and drifted SSE, accompanied by Strombolian activity that ejected material less than 100 m SSE, causing fall deposits on that respective flank. SERNAGEOMIN reported that a Planet Scope satellite image taken on 20 September showed the lava lake in the crater, measuring 32 m x 35 m and an area of 0.001 km². Several ash emissions were recorded at 0841, 0910, 1251, 1306, 1312, 1315, and 1324 on 23 September and rose less than 150 m above the crater. The sulfur dioxide flux value was 698 t/d on 23 September and 1,097 t/d on 24 September. On 24 September the Volcanic Alert Level (VAL) was raised to Orange (the third level on a four-color scale). SENAPRED maintained the Alert Level at Yellow (the middle level on a three-color scale) for the communities of Villarrica, Pucón (16 km N), Curarrehue, and Panguipulli.

During 24-25 September there was an increase in seismic energy (observed at TR-events) and acoustic signals, characterized by 1 VT-type event, 213 LP-type events, and 124 TR-type events. Mainly white gas-and-steam emissions, in addition to occasional fine ash emissions were recorded. During the early morning of 25 September Strombolian explosions were reported and ejected material 250 m in all directions, though dominantly toward the NW. On 25 September the average value of sulfur dioxide flux was 760 t/d. Seismicity during 25-30 September consisted of five VT-type events, 1,937 LP-type events, and 456 TR-type events.

During 25-29 September moderate Strombolian activity was observed and ejected material as far as the crater rim. In addition, ash pulses lasting roughly 50 minutes were observed around 0700 and dispersed ENE. During 26-27 September a TR episode lasted 6.5 hours and was accompanied by discrete acoustic signals. Satellite images from 26 September showed a spatter cone on the crater floor with one vent that measured 10 x 14 m and a smaller vent about 35 m NE of the cone. SERNAGEOMIN reported an abundant number of bomb-sized blocks up to 150 m from the crater, as well as impact marks on the snow, which indicated explosive activity. A low-altitude ash emission was observed drifting NW around 1140 on 28 September, based on webcam images. Between 0620 and 0850 on 29 September an ash emission rose 60 m above the crater and drifted NW. During an overflight taken around 1000 on 29 September scientists observed molten material in the vent, a large accumulation of pyroclasts inside the crater, and energetic degassing, some of which contained a small amount of ash. Block-sized pyroclasts were deposited on the internal walls and near the crater, and a distal ash deposit was also visible. The average sulfur dioxide flux measured on 28 September was 344 t/d. Satellite images taken on 29 September ashfall was deposited roughly 3 km WNW from the crater and nighttime crater incandescence remained visible. The average sulfur dioxide flux value from 29 September was 199 t/d. On 30 September at 0740 a pulsating ash emission rose 1.1 km above the crater and drifted NNW (figure 126). Deposits on the S flank extended as far as 4.5 km from the crater rim, based on satellite images from 30 September.

Figure 126. Webcam image of a gray ash plume rising 1.1 km above the crater of Villarrica at 0740 (local time) on 30 September 2023. Courtesy of SERNAGEOMIN (Reporte Especial de Actividad Volcanica (REAV), Region De La Araucania y Los Rios, Volcan Villarrica, 30 de septiembre de 2023, 09:30 Hora local).

Infrared MODIS satellite data processed by MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) showed intermittent thermal activity during April through September, with slightly stronger activity detected during late September (figure 127). Small clusters of thermal activity were detected during mid-June, early July, early August, and late September. According to the MODVOLC thermal alert system, a total of four thermal hotspots were detected on 7 July and 3 and 23 September. This activity was also intermittently captured in infrared satellite imagery on clear weather days (figure 128).

Figure 127. Low-to-moderate power thermal anomalies were detected at Villarrica during April through September 2023, according to this MIROVA graph (Log Radiative Power). Activity was relatively low during April through mid-June. Small clusters of activity occurred during mid-June, early July, early August, and late September. Courtesy of MIROVA.

Figure 128. Consistent bright thermal anomalies (bright yellow-orange) were visible at the summit crater of Villarrica in infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite images, as shown on 17 June 2023 (top left), 17 July 2023 (top right), 6 August 2023 (bottom left), and 20 September 2023 (bottom right). Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Geologic Background. The glacier-covered Villarrica stratovolcano, in the northern Lakes District of central Chile, is ~15 km south of the city of Pucon. A 2-km-wide caldera that formed about 3,500 years ago is located at the base of the presently active, dominantly basaltic to basaltic andesite cone at the NW margin of a 6-km-wide Pleistocene caldera. More than 30 scoria cones and fissure vents are present on the flanks. Plinian eruptions and pyroclastic flows that have extended up to 20 km from the volcano were produced during the Holocene. Lava flows up to 18 km long have issued from summit and flank vents. Eruptions documented since 1558 CE have consisted largely of mild-to-moderate explosive activity with occasional lava effusion. Glaciers cover 40 km2 of the volcano, and lahars have damaged towns on its flanks.

Information Contacts: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN), Observatorio Volcanológico de Los Andes del Sur (OVDAS), Avda Sta María No. 0104, Santiago, Chile (URL: http://www.sernageomin.cl/); Proyecto Observación Villarrica Internet (POVI) (URL: http://www.povi.cl/); Sistema y Servicio Nacional de Prevención y Repuesta Ante Desastres (SENAPRED), Av. Beauchef 1671, Santiago, Chile (URL: https://web.senapred.cl/); Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), Servicio Meteorológico Nacional-Fuerza Aérea Argentina, 25 de mayo 658, Buenos Aires, Argentina (URL: http://www.smn.gov.ar/vaac/buenosaires/inicio.php); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/).

Merapi, located just north of the major city of Yogyakarta in central Java, Indonesia, has had activity within the last 20 years characterized by pyroclastic flows and lahars accompanying growth and collapse of the steep-sided active summit lava dome. The current eruption period began in late December 2020 and has more recently consisted of ash plumes, intermittent incandescent avalanches of material, and pyroclastic flows (BGVN 48:04). This report covers activity during April through September 2023, based on information from Balai Penyelidikan dan Pengembangan Teknologi Kebencanaan Geologi (BPPTKG), the Center for Research and Development of Geological Disaster Technology, a branch of PVMBG which specifically monitors Merapi. Additional information comes from the Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), MAGMA Indonesia, the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), and various satellite data.

Activity during April through September 2023 primarily consisted of incandescent avalanches of material that mainly affected the SW and W flanks and traveled as far as 2.3 km from the summit (table 25) and white gas-and-steam emissions that rose 10-1,000 m above the crater.

Table 25. Monthly summary of avalanches and avalanche distances recorded at Merapi during April through September 2023. The number of reported avalanches does not include instances where possible avalanches were heard but could not be visually confirmed as a result of inclement weather. Data courtesy of BPPTKG (April-September 2023 daily reports).

BPPTKG reported that during April and May white gas-and-steam emissions rose 10-750 m above the crater, incandescent avalanches descended 500-2,000 m on the SW and W flanks (figure 135). Cloudy weather often prevented clear views of the summit, and sometimes avalanches could not be confirmed. According to a webcam image, a pyroclastic flow was visible on 17 April at 0531. During the week of 28 April and 4 May a pyroclastic flow was reported on the SW flank, traveling up to 2.5 km. According to a drone overflight taken on 17 May the SW lava dome volume was an estimated 2,372,800 cubic meters and the dome in the main crater was an estimated 2,337,300 cubic meters.

Figure 135. Photo showing an incandescent avalanche affecting the flank of Merapi on 8 April 2023. Courtesy of Øystein Lund Andersen.

During June and July similar activity persisted with white gas-and-steam emissions rising 10-350 m above the crater and frequent incandescent avalanches that traveled 300-2,000 m down the SW, W, and S flanks (figure 136). Based on an analysis of aerial photos taken on 24 June the volume of the SW lava dome was approximately 2.5 million cubic meters. A pyroclastic flow was observed on 5 July that traveled 2.7 km on the SW flank. According to the Darwin VAAC multiple minor ash plumes were identified in satellite images on 19 July that rose to 3.7 km altitude and drifted S and SW. During 22, 25, and 26 July a total of 17 avalanches descended as far as 1.8 km on the S flank.

Figure 136. Photo showing an incandescent avalanche descending the flank of Merapi on 23 July 2023. Courtesy of Øystein Lund Andersen.

Frequent white gas-and-steam emissions continued during August and September, rising 10-450 m above the crater. Incandescent avalanches mainly affected the SW and W flanks and traveled 400-2,300 m from the vent (figure 137). An aerial survey conducted on 10 August was analyzed and reported that estimates of the SW dome volume was 2,764,300 cubic meters and the dome in the main crater was 2,369,800 cubic meters.

Figure 137. Photo showing a strong incandescent avalanche descending the flank of Merapi on 23 September 2023. Courtesy of Øystein Lund Andersen.

Frequent and moderate-power thermal activity continued throughout the reporting period, according to a MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) analysis of MODIS satellite data (figure 138). There was an increase in the number of detected anomalies during mid-May. The MODVOLC thermal algorithm recorded a total of 47 thermal hotspots: six during April, nine during May, eight during June, 15 during July, four during August, and five during September. Some of this activity was captured in infrared satellite imagery on clear weather days, sometimes accompanied by incandescent material on the SW flank (figure 139).

Figure 138. Frequent and moderate-power thermal anomalies were detected at Merapi during April through September 2023, as shown on this MIROVA plot (Log Radiative Power). There was an increase in the number of anomalies recorded during mid-May. Courtesy of MIROVA.

Figure 139. Infrared (bands B12, B11, B4) satellite images showed a consistent thermal anomaly (bright yellow-orange) at the summit crater of Merapi on 8 April 2023 (top left), 18 May 2023 (top right), 17 June 2023 (middle left), 17 July 2023 (middle right), 11 August 2023 (bottom left), and 20 September 2023 (bottom right). Incandescent material was occasionally visible descending the SW flank, as shown in each of these images. Courtesy of Copernicus Browser.

Geologic Background. Merapi, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes, lies in one of the world's most densely populated areas and dominates the landscape immediately north of the major city of Yogyakarta. It is the youngest and southernmost of a volcanic chain extending NNW to Ungaran volcano. Growth of Old Merapi during the Pleistocene ended with major edifice collapse perhaps about 2,000 years ago, leaving a large arcuate scarp cutting the eroded older Batulawang volcano. Subsequent growth of the steep-sided Young Merapi edifice, its upper part unvegetated due to frequent activity, began SW of the earlier collapse scarp. Pyroclastic flows and lahars accompanying growth and collapse of the steep-sided active summit lava dome have devastated cultivated lands on the western-to-southern flanks and caused many fatalities.

Information Contacts: Balai Penyelidikan dan Pengembangan Teknologi Kebencanaan Geologi (BPPTKG), Center for Research and Development of Geological Disaster Technology (URL: http://merapi.bgl.esdm.go.id/, Twitter: @BPPTKG); MAGMA Indonesia, Kementerian Energi dan Sumber Daya Mineral (URL: https://magma.esdm.go.id/v1); Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), Bureau of Meteorology, Northern Territory Regional Office, PO Box 40050, Casuarina, NT 0811, Australia (URL: http://www.bom.gov.au/info/vaac/); MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity), a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence (Italy) supported by the Centre for Volcanic Risk of the Italian Civil Protection Department (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) - MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); Copernicus Browser, Copernicus Data Space Ecosystem, European Space Agency (URL: https://dataspace.copernicus.eu/browser/); Øystein Lund Andersen (URL: https://www.oysteinlundandersen.com/, https://twitter.com/oysteinvolcano).

Ebeko, located on the N end of Paramushir Island in Russia’s Kuril Islands just S of the Kamchatka Peninsula, consists of three summit craters along a SSW-NNE line at the northern end of a complex of five volcanic cones. Observed eruptions date back to the late 18th century and have been characterized as small-to-moderate explosions from the summit crater, accompanied by intense fumarolic activity. The current eruptive period began in June 2022, consisting of frequent explosions, ash plumes, and thermal activity (BGVN 47:10, 48:06). This report covers similar activity during June-November 2023, based on information from the Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT) and satellite data.

Moderate explosive activity continued during June-November 2023 (figures 50 and 51). According to visual data from Severo-Kurilsk, explosions sent ash 2-3.5 km above the summit (3-4.5 km altitude) during most days during June through mid-September. Activity after mid-September was slightly weaker, with ash usually reaching less than 2 km above the summit. According to KVERT the volcano in October and November was, with a few exceptions, either quiet or obscured by clouds that prevented satellite observations. KVERT issued Volcano Observatory Notices for Aviation (VONA) on 8 and 12 June, 13 and 22 July, 3 and 21 August, and 31 October warning of potential aviation hazards from ash plumes drifting 3-15 km from the volcano. Based on satellite data, KVERT reported a persistent thermal anomaly whenever weather clouds permitted viewing.

Figure 50. Ash explosion from the active summit crater of Ebeko on 18 July 2023; view is approximately towards the W. Photo provided by I. Bolshakov and M.V. Lomonosov MGU; courtesy of KVERT.

Figure 51. Ash explosion from the active summit crater of Ebeko on 23 July 2023 with lightning visible in the lower part of the plume. Photo provided by I. Bolshakov and M.V. Lomonosov MGU; courtesy of KVERT.

Geologic Background. The flat-topped summit of the central cone of Ebeko volcano, one of the most active in the Kuril Islands, occupies the northern end of Paramushir Island. Three summit craters located along a SSW-NNE line form Ebeko volcano proper, at the northern end of a complex of five volcanic cones. Blocky lava flows extend west from Ebeko and SE from the neighboring Nezametnyi cone. The eastern part of the southern crater contains strong solfataras and a large boiling spring. The central crater is filled by a lake about 20 m deep whose shores are lined with steaming solfataras; the northern crater lies across a narrow, low barrier from the central crater and contains a small, cold crescentic lake. Historical activity, recorded since the late-18th century, has been restricted to small-to-moderate explosive eruptions from the summit craters. Intense fumarolic activity occurs in the summit craters, on the outer flanks of the cone, and in lateral explosion craters.

Information Contacts: Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Piip Blvd., Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.kscnet.ru/ivs/kvert/).

Seven explosions . . . were recorded in April . . . . Lapilli from an explosion at 1425 on 7 April cracked the windshield of an automobile on the volcano's island. It was the first direct damage from an explosion since February when windshields from nine autos were damaged. An explosion at 0948 on 2 April produced the highest ash plume of the month, >3,200 m above the crater. No earthquake swarms were recorded.

Geologic Background. The Aira caldera in the northern half of Kagoshima Bay contains the post-caldera Sakurajima volcano, one of Japan's most active. Eruption of the voluminous Ito pyroclastic flow accompanied formation of the 17 x 23 km caldera about 22,000 years ago. The smaller Wakamiko caldera was formed during the early Holocene in the NE corner of the caldera, along with several post-caldera cones. The construction of Sakurajima began about 13,000 years ago on the southern rim and built an island that was joined to the Osumi Peninsula during the major explosive and effusive eruption of 1914. Activity at the Kitadake summit cone ended about 4,850 years ago, after which eruptions took place at Minamidake. Frequent eruptions since the 8th century have deposited ash on the city of Kagoshima, located across Kagoshima Bay only 8 km from the summit. The largest recorded eruption took place during 1471-76.

Information Contacts: JMA.

Microearthquake activity began to increase on 27 March and continued through April before declining in May. The monthly earthquake total for April was 295, far more than the background level of 10-20. Steam emissions remained steady with no observed changes.

Geologic Background. Akan is a 13 x 24 km caldera located immediately SW of Kussharo caldera. The elongated, irregular outline of the caldera rim reflects its incremental formation during major explosive eruptions from the early to mid-Pleistocene. Growth of four post-caldera stratovolcanoes, three at the SW end of the caldera and the other at the NE side, has restricted the size of the caldera lake. Conical Oakandake was frequently active during the Holocene. The 1-km-wide Nakamachineshiri crater of Meakandake was formed during a major pumice-and-scoria eruption about 13,500 years ago. Within the Akan volcanic complex, only the Meakandake group, east of Lake Akan, has been historically active, producing mild phreatic eruptions since the beginning of the 19th century. Meakandake is composed of nine overlapping cones. The main cone of Meakandake proper has a triple crater at its summit. Historical eruptions at Meakandake have consisted of minor phreatic explosions, but four major magmatic eruptions including pyroclastic flows have occurred during the Holocene.

Information Contacts: JMA.

A steam plume was observed rising above Arácar on 28 March. Viewed from the town of Tolar Grande, 50 km SE, the plume persisted throughout the clear day. At least twice during the day, a large ash column slowly rose 2,000 m above the summit. The following day clouds prevented a clear view of the volcano, but an "ashy haze" in the sky was noted. A local observer indicated that the activity was not unusual.

Arácar has a base 10 km in diameter. It is located just E of the Argentina-Chile border, ~ 100 km S of Lascar and 80 km NE of Llullaillaco volcanoes. No historical eruptions have been recorded. Moyra Gardeweg provided the following background. "It is clearly younger than the surrounding Miocene volcanoes. Its steep conical edifice has been cut by some deep gorges and an uncovered alteration zone lies close to its summit on the NE flank. It has a well-developed and well-preserved summit crater (1-1.5 km diameter) that contains a tiny lake. Lava flows are well preserved at the base of the cone (below 4,500-m elev), a common feature of Pliocene-to-Quaternary volcanoes in the Central Andes. I have no information about its exact age, but the good preservation of the summit crater and lava flows suggest that it could be Quaternary, although I can only assume it is Pliocene or younger."

Geologic Background. Aracar is a steep-sided stratovolcano with a youthful-looking summit crater 1-1.5 km in diameter that contains a small lake. It is located just east of the Argentina-Chile border. The volcano was constructed during three eruptive cycles dating back to the Pliocene. The andesitic stratovolcano overlies dacitic lava domes. Lava flows found at the base of the volcano below 4500 m elevation are relatively well preserved, but upper-flank lavas, often an indication of youthful activity, are not present (de Silva, 2007 pers. comm.). There were reports of possible ash columns from the summit in 1993, but it is not known whether these were rockfall dust or eruption plumes.

Information Contacts: R. Trujillo, Colorado, USA; M. Gardeweg, SERNAGEOMIN, Santiago.

Gas emissions and lava flows continued from Crater C in April, and Strombolian activity vibrated windows of houses in La Palma, ~4 km N. Ash-laden columns were blown E on 15 April, and sporadic pyroclastic flows were observed. The character of the eruption changed on 20 April as the number of explosions decreased while degassing and effusion of lava increased.

The lava flow that started down the SW flank in March remained active. Its W lobe reached 1,050 m elevation and its SW lobe reached 1,000 m elevation. The flow descending the S flank halted at 1,400 m elevation. About the middle of the month a new flow began to descend the SW flank.

A seismograph ~2.7 km NE of the active crater recorded 1,314 explosions in April, an average of 44 explosions/day (figure 55, bottom). The highest daily total was 84 on April 21, and the lowest was 13 on 27 April. Some of the explosions were recorded by a new seismograph network 120 km distant. Tremor was most persistent on 7, 19 and 20 April with 19, 19, and 21 hours recorded respectively (figure 55, top). The tremor frequency was between 1.3 and 2.3 Hz.

Figure 55. Hours of tremor/day (top) and explosions/day (bottom) recorded 2.7 km NE of Arenal. Courtesy of OVSICORI.

Activity 18-27 April was reported by W. Melson. "Arenal volcano was in continuous eruption. Loud explosions were common 18-19 April, but by 21 April were replaced by frequent chugging and whooshing sounds (figure 56) from summit scoria fountains. These fountains fed a slowly descending, viscous, blocky, highly phyric hypersthene-augite basaltic andesite flow, which spilled over the WSW side of the crater. The flow's advance was accompanied by spectacular avalanches of incandescent blocks from the flow front."

Figure 56. Activity of Arenal, 18-27 April, as observed from Arenal Volcano Lodge, 2.8 km S of the summit craters. "Chug" and "whoosh" events are characterized by their sound. Courtesy of W. Melson.

Geologic Background. Conical Volcán Arenal is the youngest stratovolcano in Costa Rica and one of its most active. The 1670-m-high andesitic volcano towers above the eastern shores of Lake Arenal, which has been enlarged by a hydroelectric project. Arenal lies along a volcanic chain that has migrated to the NW from the late-Pleistocene Los Perdidos lava domes through the Pleistocene-to-Holocene Chato volcano, which contains a 500-m-wide, lake-filled summit crater. The earliest known eruptions of Arenal took place about 7000 years ago, and it was active concurrently with Cerro Chato until the activity of Chato ended about 3500 years ago. Growth of Arenal has been characterized by periodic major explosive eruptions at several-hundred-year intervals and periods of lava effusion that armor the cone. An eruptive period that began with a major explosive eruption in 1968 ended in December 2010; continuous explosive activity accompanied by slow lava effusion and the occasional emission of pyroclastic flows characterized the eruption from vents at the summit and on the upper western flank.

Information Contacts: E. Fernández, J. Barquero, V. Barboza, and W. Jimenez, OVSICORI; W. Melson, SI; S. McNutt, AVO.

Fumarolic activity observed in late April from the crater area resulted from normal condensation of steam and was not caused by eruptive activity.

Geologic Background. Avachinsky, one of Kamchatka's most active volcanoes, rises above Petropavlovsk, Kamchatka's largest city. It began to form during the middle or late Pleistocene, and is flanked to the SE by Kozelsky volcano, which has a large crater breached to the NE. A large collapse scarp open to the SW was created when a major debris avalanche about 30,000-40,000 years ago buried an area of about 500 km2 to the south, underlying the city of Petropavlovsk. Reconstruction of the volcano took place in two stages, the first of which began about 18,000 years before present (BP), and the second 7,000 years BP. Most eruptions have been explosive, with pyroclastic flows and hot lahars being directed primarily to the SW by the collapse scarp, although there have also been relatively short lava flows. The frequent historical eruptions have been similar in style and magnitude to previous Holocene eruptions.

Information Contacts: V. Kirianov, IVGG.

Steady degassing from the summit craters followed the end of the 1991-93 eruption on 30 March (18:03). Increased gas emissions were noted at the central (Voragine) and SE craters (see figure 59) in April, but no morphological changes were detected. The floor of Northeast Crater sank a few meters in early April and remained obstructed by fallen material.

Seismic activity was low with only two volcano-tectonic events recorded. The highest magnitude event (M 2.7) occurred 14 April on the SE flank of the volcano at ~ 10 km depth. Long-period events were similar to those recorded in March, but fewer in number. There was also a decreasing trend in volcanic tremor spectral amplitude. No major changes were recorded by shallow bore-hole tilt stations on the slopes of the volcano.

Geologic Background. Mount Etna, towering above Catania on the island of Sicily, has one of the world's longest documented records of volcanism, dating back to 1500 BCE. Historical lava flows of basaltic composition cover much of the surface of this massive volcano, whose edifice is the highest and most voluminous in Italy. The Mongibello stratovolcano, truncated by several small calderas, was constructed during the late Pleistocene and Holocene over an older shield volcano. The most prominent morphological feature of Etna is the Valle del Bove, a 5 x 10 km caldera open to the east. Two styles of eruptive activity typically occur, sometimes simultaneously. Persistent explosive eruptions, sometimes with minor lava emissions, take place from one or more summit craters. Flank vents, typically with higher effusion rates, are less frequently active and originate from fissures that open progressively downward from near the summit (usually accompanied by Strombolian eruptions at the upper end). Cinder cones are commonly constructed over the vents of lower-flank lava flows. Lava flows extend to the foot of the volcano on all sides and have reached the sea over a broad area on the SE flank.

Information Contacts: IIV.

Two small pyroclastic eruptions in the first half of April produced columns 6 km high. The first, at 1603 on 4 April, ejected 18 x 10⁴ m³ of ash. Seismicity associated with the eruption reached M 3 and lasted for 123 seconds, saturating nearby stations (within 2 km) for the first 17 seconds. Analysis of records from stations >5 km away showed dominant frequencies of 4.9 and 12.6 Hz. Long-period seismicity increased slightly for 8 hours after the explosion. The second eruption occurred at 0321 on 13 April, with 21.7 x 10⁴ m³ of ash and blocks ejected. The long-period event associated with this eruption reached M 3.1 and lasted for 140 seconds, saturating nearby stations for the first 33 seconds. The dominant frequencies were 9.8 and 12.4 Hz. Small-magnitude long-period seismicity continued for 30 minutes.

Seven high-frequency events were registered on 1 April, with a maximum magnitude of 4.5. The earthquakes occurred at 0048 (M 4.2), 0159 (M 4.5), 0204 (M 4.0), 0303 (M 3.5), 0508 (M 3.1), 0839 (M 3.0), and 2145 (M 2.8). High-frequency seismicity increased again 26 April, peaked the morning of the 27th (figure 66), and was continuing in early May. Another earthquake, M 3.6, occurred at 1030 on 29 April. All of these earthquakes, as well as 67 other events, had epicenters 3 km N of the active crater at depths of 2-8 km below the summit (figure 67). There were ~300 earthquakes recorded in April 1993.

Figure 66. Daily number of earthquakes at Galeras, 1 January to 30 April 1993. Dashed line indicates long-period events; solid line indicates high-frequency events (very low until 27 April). Arrows at top indicate eruptions on 14 January, 23 March, 4 April, and 13 April. Courtesy of INGEOMINAS.

Figure 67. Locations of high-frequency earthquakes at Galeras, 26-30 April 1993. Courtesy of INGEOMINAS.

"Screw-type" events, monochromatic long-period events characterized by a long, slowly decaying coda, reappeared on 8 April. A total of 18 of these events was recorded in April, the most significant at 0619 and 1030 on 10 April and at 0926 on 29 April, about an hour before an M 3.6 earthquake. This type of seismic signal has usually preceded eruptions, but was absent before the 4 April eruption. However, relatively small earthquakes, "hybrids between high-frequency and long-period," were registered at stations close to the crater. This activity, similar to that observed before other eruptions at Galeras, was more noticeable during the first half of the month, with swarms on 1, 2, 6, 8, and 9 April.

Geologic Background. Galeras, a stratovolcano with a large breached caldera located immediately west of the city of Pasto, is one of Colombia's most frequently active volcanoes. The dominantly andesitic complex has been active for more than 1 million years, and two major caldera collapse eruptions took place during the late Pleistocene. Long-term extensive hydrothermal alteration has contributed to large-scale edifice collapse on at least three occasions, producing debris avalanches that swept to the west and left a large open caldera inside which the modern cone has been constructed. Major explosive eruptions since the mid-Holocene have produced widespread tephra deposits and pyroclastic flows that swept all but the southern flanks. A central cone slightly lower than the caldera rim has been the site of numerous small-to-moderate eruptions since the time of the Spanish conquistadors.

Information Contacts: M. Calvache, INGEOMINAS, Pasto.

The . . . eruption continued in April and early May as lava from E-51 and E-53 vents entered the ocean. Surface flows were rare during the second half of April, but lava continued to reach the coastline through tubes. The volume of lava entering the ocean at Lae Apuki and along the W edge of the Kamoamoa delta began to decline in the last few days of April and early May as surface flows began breaking out inland from the entry points. By 6 May only the W Kamoamoa entry remained slightly active. The same day, three large breakouts were observed on Pulama Pali and two large sheet flows appeared on the coastal plain at night. One flow emerged from a tube below Pali Uli (~1 km inland) and advanced down the W side of the Lae Apuki flow. The other flow broke out of the Kamoamoa lava tube and covered new land on the E margin of the Kamoamoa flow field. By 10 May, the flows at Lae Apuki were stagnant, but lava continued to enter the ocean on both the E and W sides of the Kamoamoa delta. The Pu`u `O`o lava pond was very active during this period, fluctuating between 75 and 79 m below the rim.

Eruption tremor along the East rift zone continued with tremor amplitude 2-3x background levels during this period. Microearthquake counts were low beneath the summit and slightly above average along the East rift zone. Seismicity associated with ocean front bench collapse/explosion was recorded at 0939 on 17 April across almost the entire network, with P-arrivals that appeared to have very long-period characteristics. Many smaller events were recorded locally by the Wahaula seismograph (~4 km NE).

A number of collapse events with slightly higher frequency characteristics, including six that were locatable, were detected between 2143 and 2158 on 19 April by the Wahaula station. Based on field evidence and tourist reports, a major bench collapse during that time period was followed by a steam explosion as sea water inundated newly exposed hot rocks (figure 90). One person disappeared into the ocean, and 22 others were treated for injuries caused by the explosion showering them with incandescent lithic blocks and from falls on older flows while fleeing the area. The collapsed bench measured 210 m parallel to the coast, 14 m wide, and 8 m maximum thickness. Ejecta from the steam explosion were directed NW. Blocks near the viewing area and trail were generally <25 cm in size; meter-sized blocks were restricted to within 20 m of the entry area. Blocks were observed up to 200 m from the coast.

Figure 90. Map of the Lae Apuki ocean entry area following the bench collapse and steam explosion on 19 April 1993. Courtesy of HVO.

Geologic Background. Kilauea overlaps the E flank of the massive Mauna Loa shield volcano in the island of Hawaii. Eruptions are prominent in Polynesian legends; written documentation since 1820 records frequent summit and flank lava flow eruptions interspersed with periods of long-term lava lake activity at Halemaumau crater in the summit caldera until 1924. The 3 x 5 km caldera was formed in several stages about 1,500 years ago and during the 18th century; eruptions have also originated from the lengthy East and Southwest rift zones, which extend to the ocean in both directions. About 90% of the surface of the basaltic shield volcano is formed of lava flows less than about 1,100 years old; 70% of the surface is younger than 600 years. The long-term eruption from the East rift zone between 1983 and 2018 produced lava flows covering more than 100 km2, destroyed hundreds of houses, and added new coastline.

Information Contacts: T. Mattox and P. Okubo, HVO.

IV noted an increase in activity . . . in mid-March 1993, after a short period of repose, when explosions in the central crater sent an ash-and-gas cloud 1-2 km above the summit. On 15 March, volcanic tremor was noted, increasing in amplitude after 15 April.

A significant increase in seismicity beneath the volcano 24-27 April was reported by IVGG. Observers reported a glow near the summit area during the night of 25-26 April. A snowstorm prevented observation of the volcano 28-29 April, as volcanic tremor continued. Small steam and ash bursts inside the crater rose 200-300 m above the rim on 6 May. The plume extended 40 km NW from the volcano. Volcanic tremor remained above background.

IVGG reported three ash explosions from the summit crater on 10 May between 2030 and 2045, producing a plume that rose ~1 km above the crater rim and extended 7 km about SE. That same day, tremor amplitude measured by IV reached a maximum of 2.4 µm. Occasional steam and ash bursts occurred in the summit crater again 14 May; the plume rose 0.5-1 km above the crater rim and extended 1-7 km SW. Tremor amplitude had decreased by 19 May.

IV geologists note that tremor at Kliuchevskoi is common and is related to eruptive activity in the summit crater and, to a lesser degree, to flank eruptions. Tremor amplitude is largely dependent on the style of volcanic activity: amplitudes <0.5 µm are associated with steam-gas emission; 0.5-3 µm with Vulcanian explosions; and >3 µm with Strombolian explosions or lava spouting. Aircraft observations on 4 April 1993 revealed a newly formed crater at the summit with a diameter of 500 m and a depth of 200 m. A July 1992 overflight by S. A. Fedotov (IV) had previously revealed the almost complete subsidence of the 1984-90 cone. The last episode of dome collapse followed by renewed dome growth took place during 1962-68 when a new small volcanic cone was seen on the floor of the crater and minor lava fountaining was observed from its vent.

Geologic Background. Klyuchevskoy is the highest and most active volcano on the Kamchatka Peninsula. Since its origin about 6,000 years ago, this symmetrical, basaltic stratovolcano has produced frequent moderate-volume explosive and effusive eruptions without major periods of inactivity. It rises above a saddle NE of Kamen volcano and lies SE of the broad Ushkovsky massif. More than 100 flank eruptions have occurred during approximately the past 3,000 years, with most lateral craters and cones occurring along radial fissures between the unconfined NE-to-SE flanks of the conical volcano between 500 and 3,600 m elevation. Eruptions recorded since the late 17th century have resulted in frequent changes to the morphology of the 700-m-wide summit crater. These eruptions over the past 400 years have originated primarily from the summit crater, but have also included numerous major explosive and effusive eruptions from flank craters.

Information Contacts: V. Ivanov and V. Dvigalo, IV; V. Kirianov, IVGG

"Eruptive activity was at a moderate-to-high level during April. A total of 134 Vulcanian explosion earthquakes was recorded, with the highest daily total of 17 events on 5 April.

"Incandescent Strombolian projections to 300 m above Crater 2 were seen on 2, 4, 5-10, and 23 April. Steady, weak glow was observed on 11, 19, 20, 24, and 26 April. Explosion and rumbling noises were heard throughout the month. Dark grey ash columns and moderate-to-strong white-grey vapour were released every day. Some ashfall to the SE and NW of the volcano was reported.

"Crater 3 was active until 13 April, producing moderate-to-strong ash emissions accompanied by deep explosion noises. Emissions then stopped until 22 April when weak blue and white vapours appeared. Emissions stopped again on 26 April. No glow or incandescent ejections were observed."

Geologic Background. Langila, one of the most active volcanoes of New Britain, consists of a group of four small overlapping composite basaltic-andesitic cones on the lower E flank of the extinct Talawe volcano in the Cape Gloucester area of NW New Britain. A rectangular, 2.5-km-long crater is breached widely to the SE; Langila was constructed NE of the breached crater of Talawe. An extensive lava field reaches the coast on the N and NE sides of Langila. Frequent mild-to-moderate explosive eruptions, sometimes accompanied by lava flows, have been recorded since the 19th century from three active craters at the summit. The youngest and smallest crater (no. 3 crater) was formed in 1960 and has a diameter of 150 m.

Information Contacts: N. Lauer, R. Stewart, and C. McKee, RVO.

The largest historical eruption of Lascar began late on 18 April and sent ash 20-22 km above the . . . crater rim the following day. Pyroclastic flows traveled 7.5 km NW and light ashfall (<0.1 mm) was reported in Buenos Aires, Argentina, 1,500 km SE of the volcano.

A survey conducted from January to 14 March revealed that fumarolic activity persisted with columns sometimes absent but other times rising 500-1,000 m above the crater rim. A decrease in fumarolic activity 3-8 March preceded a small phreatomagmatic eruption on 10 March that produced a column 2,000 m high (Gardeweg and others, 1993). Similar activity had also been noted on 30 January when a higher eruption column followed a few days of low level activity. During 10-14 March, the column height remained at 500-1,000 m. Observations from 14 March to the evening of 20 April were made by Ibar Torrejón, a teacher in Talabre (17 km WNW) who maintains a log of Lascar's activity. From 8-17 April the column was also low: 100-200 m. The only other observed pre-eruption change was in the color of the column, from yellowish gray (8-11 April) to whitish pale-blue (12-17 April).

Eruptive activity. Activity on 18 April was primarily phreatic until 2200 when a large explosion threw incandescent material into the air. An explosion at 2300 produced a Plinian column. These initial explosions may have been related to the partial destruction of the dome that had filled the crater in March 1992 (17:3 and 5) and collapsed sometime between 12 November and 7 December.

At 0700 on 19 April, a low, dark, ash-laden Plinian column was observed, which slowly rose 5-10 km above the rim by 0900. (Initial reports of column heights were systematically high; corrected estimates are given here). Bombs were observed throughout the morning. At 1012 the column rose above 10 km, and the first pyroclastic flow down the N flank was seen: flows also descended the NE and SE flanks, but were not observed. Other large columns (10-15 km) accompanied by pyroclastic flows were recorded at 1030, 1205, and 1317. A witness in La Escondida mine (175 km SW) described these columns as much larger than those from the 1990 eruption (15:2). The explosion at 1317 produced a column that rose 20-22 km above the rim: it was accompanied by strong rumbling and ejection of bombs to heights > 2 km. The column dropped to 2 km height until an explosion at 1715 sent it back above 15 km. Nearly 30 minutes of continuous pyroclastic flow activity near the summit began at 1935. Large explosions at 2135-2148 and 2340-2350 preceded pyroclastic flows down the N and NW slopes. Ash was blown predominately ESE.

Activity declined until 0340 on 20 April when new Strombolian explosions began, ejecting incandescent spatter up to 1.5 km above the rim. Major explosive activity resumed at 0628, producing a column >10 km high and ejecting blocks to heights >1 km. The next large explosion, at 0920, was accompanied by strong rumbles and underground noises. It generated a column nearly 10 km high and its collapse produced the farthest-reaching pyroclastic flows (7.5 km NW). Seen from Sierra Gorda (165 km WNW), the column had a well-formed mushroom shape. It remained 2-4 km high until another large explosion at 1302, which sent the column to 8.5 km within 8 minutes before it began to drift NE. One observer reported two columns rising from the crater during this explosion, the W one a darker gray-brown. At 1500 the height of the yellow-gray column decreased to 3.5-4 km, and persisted at this height until 1915 when nightfall prevented further observations. During the night, no eruptions were recorded, and no incandescent material was seen above the crater or on the flanks of the volcano.

Observations at 0630 the following morning indicated that Lascar had returned to its normal fumarolic activity with weak columns that hardly rose above the crater rim. Small explosions on 22, 23, 26, and 29 April produced columns 1000 m above the rim, but the column otherwise remained low (100-300 m) and white with occasional ash explosions to 500-800 m high. This activity continued through 8 May. During this period 2 discrete fumarolic gas columns were again observed rising from the NE and W sides of the crater, suggesting changes in its morphology from March, when only one column was noted.

An overflight of the volcano on 26 April by the National Emergency Office of the Chilean Air Force provided aerial photography of the crater and surrounding area at scales of 1:33,000 and 1:3,500. From these photographs, a new lava dome was identified in the bottom of the crater, filling a much larger portion of the crater than either the 1989 or 1992 domes. The exposed base of the dome was ~60 m higher than the previous dome and 100 m above the known crater floor (5,145-m elev). A preliminary volume estimate of the new dome was 4.6 x 10⁶ m³. The dome appeared as a flat surface with concentric cooling ridges and steep walls devoid of a talus apron. Fumarolic activity was restricted to the margins of the dome, primarily on the SE edge. Fresh tephra partially covered the walls of the active crater, particularly in the benches, and filled the E craters (figure 13). The crater showed no other remarkable morphological changes.

Figure 13. Sketch map of the distribution of pyroclastic flows from the 19-20 April eruption of Lascar, based on photos taken on 26 April. Featured are (1) 19-20 April pumiceous pyroclastic-flow deposits, (2) 19-20 April undifferentiated pyroclastic material, (3) Previous lava flows partially covered by pyroclastic-flow deposits, (4) Pliocene welded ignimbrites, (5) Miocene to Pliocene domes, (6) the new lava dome, and (7) arrows indicating lava flows. Courtesy of M. Gardeweg, SERNAGEOMIN.

Five portable seismographs were installed around the volcano on the evening of 20 April. Preliminary analysis showed that the harmonic tremor recorded January-March 1993 was not initially present, but returned a couple of days after the eruption. A small number of high-frequency events occurred 21-25 April. A swarm of B-type events on 28 April may have been associated with the new dome formation, and an increase in activity on 30 April may have marked the injection of new magma.

Eruption products. M. Gardeweg characterized the eruption products as pyroclastic flows, co-ignimbrite fallout (pumice and ash) deposited mainly to the E, and projectiles (figure 13). The pyroclastic flows were small-volume ignimbrites composed of abundant rounded andesitic pumice in a gray ash matrix. Most flows traveled ~4 km from the crater, but some to the NW were channeled by the upper Talabre gorge and reached Tumbres, a swampy ground 7.5 km from the crater where springs supply water for the village of Talabre. The flow deposit was covered by a narrow, thin veneer of very fine-grained ash, which was constantly blown by the wind. Degassing pipes were observed in the Tumbres deposit. A day after the eruption, the flow front was still warm, but was cooling rapidly.

The water supply to Talabre was cut off by the pyroclastic flow, but a few hours after its emplacement, water eroded through the pyroclastic material, and developed a new creek in the gorge. Donkeys and small insects were back in Tumbres the day after the eruption. The water contained a large amount of ash, but its pH was 7.6-7.7, only slightly less than its normal 8.3. Grass samples from Tumbres that were covered by ash showed 33% more fluorine than samples of clean grass. Ash from Chilean volcanoes Hudson and Lonquimay also contained notable amounts of fluorine.

The lapilli varied from white and vesicular pumices to a denser scoriae. Banding evident in some lapilli mainly reflects different degrees of vesicularity. A few dense blocks (2(black scoriae) to 60.4% SiO₂ (white pumices). The fine ash has a similar andesitic composition (60.3% SiO₂) with slight K enrichment. Large blocks (>2 m) left 4-5 m diameter impact craters up to 7 km from the crater. In Lejía, 17 km SSE of the volcano, a thin cover of pumice fragments 6-9 cm in diameter was noted. Huaitiquina Pass, 65 km SE on the Chilean-Argentine border, received only a thin layer of fine ash (4-4.5 mm), largely blown by wind and concentrated below cliffs or in depressions. No fall-out was found in El Laco, 55 km SE (slightly S of Huaitiquina).

The eruption also affected Argentina and J. Viramonte provided the following information. The total volume of erupted material (excluding material injected into the stratosphere) was estimated to be 0.1 km³: 0.09 km³ proximal air fall, 0.0085 km³ distal air fall, and 0.0037 km³ pyroclastic flow.

Viramonte noted that pyroclastic-flow deposits W of the crater, 7.5 km long and 1.5-2 m thick, cut the road between Antofagasta, Chile, and Salta, Argentina. He described the deposits as 60% coarse juvenile andesitic pumice fragments (2-60 cm in diameter) mixed with a minor volume of dense andesitic blocks as large as 1 m in diameter (from the old summit lava dome), and 40% fine-grained andesitic material. A very fine-grained ash-cloud-surge deposit, 5-30 cm thick, that clearly burned vegetation, flanked the pyroclastic-flow deposits. On 23 April temperatures of the deposits were as high as 100°C. These units may have been emplaced during the continuous emission of pyroclastic flows that began at 1935 on 19 April.

Four superposed pyroclastic-flow units begin 3 km from the crater rim on the ESE flank of the volcano, and extend 3-4 km to the Pampa Lejía plain. They are 1.2-1.5 m thick and composed of mainly white juvenile pumice fragments and gray blocks from the lava dome (70-80%), and fine-grained material (20-30%). Many light-and-dark banded pumice fragments were present.

Three short pyroclastic-flow lobes on the E side of the volcano had been covered by air-fall pumice. Many fumaroles with white ammonium chloride crystals and red yellow iron chloride crystals were present on the flows. Fumarole temperatures were as high as 250°C. At the foot of the pyroclastic-flow deposits, a thin ground-surge deposit was identified 100-150 m up the side of Corona hill at the S end of Lascar.

Ejected bombs and blocks were abundant within a 3-3.5 km radius of the crater, becoming rare 4 km distant. The ballistic clasts were pumiceous black andesitic bombs and dense gray andesitic blocks from the lava dome. Rounded and strongly vesiculated bombs as large as 70 cm in diameter were found 3 km from the crater. The lava-dome blocks were irregular and often showed a bread-crust structure.

Tephra carried by strong high-altitude winds produced a large dispersion of airfall deposits to the ESE (figure 14). Wind speed and direction reported by the Servicio Metereorológico Nacional Argentina at different localities (table 2) are consistent with the evolution of the ash cloud as tracked by NOAA using weather satellites.

Figure 14. Isopach map of tephra fallout from April 19-20 eruption of Lascar. Depths are in cm. Closed fields indicate salars, saline playa lakes. Courtesy of J. Viramonte, Instituto Geonorte.

Table 2. Wind speed and direction at selected cities (see figure 15) downwind of the 19-20 April eruption of Lascar. Data are from the Servicio Metereorológico Nacional Argentina. Courtesy of J. Viramonte, Instituto Geonorte.

The maximum diameter of air-fall clasts on the flanks of the volcano was 30-40 cm. The maximum tephra thickness was 0.6 m on the E side of Lascar where it intersects Aguas Calientes Volcano. Approximately 20,000 km² received at least 1 mm of ash (figure 14), and over 850,000 km², including parts of N-central Argentina, S Paraguay, Uruguay, and S Brazil, were covered by a thin (<0.1 mm) deposit of ash (figure 15).

Figure 15. Approximate ash-fall distribution from the 18-20 April eruption of Lascar. The thick lines outline the area receiving ashfall according to news reports. Courtesy of M. Gardeweg, SERNAGEOMIN.

Satellite monitoring. GOES-7 visible and infrared imagery detected five major eruption pulses starting at 2300 on 19 April (table 3). The plume was very dark in the visible imagery, similar to the appearance of the 14-15 June 1991 clouds from Mount Pinatubo. A subtropical jetstream moved the plume rapidly ESE (figure 16) at ~93 km/hour.

Table 3. Summary of explosive phases of Lascar detected on 20 April with visible and infrared satellite imagery from GOES-7 and NOAA-11. The tropopause was at 15.7-km altitude in the region at 1200 GMT. Courtesy of Jim Lynch, NOAA/NESDIS.

Figure 16. Image of the plume of Lascar, 1600 on 20 April. The image was processed from NOAA-11 Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) channel 4 (thermal infrared) data. Compare with figure 3. Courtesy of G. Stephens, NOAA.

D. Rothery, C. Oppenheimer, and P. Francis noted the following changes in the active crater of Lascar using Landsat's TM. "We have been monitoring thermal events within Lascar's active crater for several years using the short wavelength infrared radiance of thermal origin. The latest image we have prior to the 20 April 1993 eruption was recorded by Landsat 5 on 24 February.

"Whereas our 1991 and 1992 data showed a strongly centered group of thermally radiant pixels that coincided with the lava dome (figure 17 bottom), there was a significant change visible on 24 February 1993 (figure 17 top). The central anomaly has decreased in size and magnitude, but there is a distinct subsidiary peak in thermal radiance to the E. This coincided with the position of a fumarole that had been more weakly radiant on previous images. This site lies about half-way down the wall of the active crater, which at this point is embedded in the floor of an old crater (see figure 13). We have no grounds for suggesting that this newly prominent site was the seat of the 19-20 April eruption. The nature of the central anomaly on 24 February, which had decreased to the approximate size and magnitude of the anomaly recorded from late 1987 until the end of 1989, suggests that the lava dome was still in existence on that date.

Figure 17. Radiance in Landsat TM band 7 (2.08-2.35 micron) for a 15x15 pixel area encompassing Lascar's active crater, looking N. Data are from 24 February 1993 during the day (top), and 15 April 1992 during the night (bottom) (from figure 21b in Oppenheimer and others, 1993). Each pixel represents a 30 x 30 m ground area. Radiance is shown as DN, which is the number recorded by the sensor. In this example, areas with DN of about 50 or less are not thermally radiant and the DN represents reflected sunlight. Where DN exceeds about 100, the surface is radiating thermally, and the DN represents the sum of reflected sunlight and thermal radiance. Courtesy of D. Rothery, Open Univ.

"The summed spectral radiance of thermal origin in Landsat TM bands 5 and 7 showed a decline before the 1993 eruption similar to that before the September 1986 eruption (figure 18). There was no observed decline before the February 1990 eruption, though that could be the result of the lack of images before the eruption."

Figure 18. Summed spectral radiance of thermal origin in Landsat TM bands 5 and 7 for the active crater of Lascar (from figure 18 in Oppenheimer and others, 1993 with data for 24 February 1993 added). Eruptions are noted by arrows. The decline in summed radiance prior to the 1993 eruption is similar to that preceding the 1986 eruption. There was no observed decline before the February 1990 eruption, though that could be the result of the lack of images during 1988-89. Courtesy of D. Rothery, Open Univ.

Effects and previous activity. The 70 [people] who live in Talabre and make their living as llama herders and weavers were evacuated [to the nearby village of Toconao for two nights] by authorities on 19 April. Initial reports indicated that there had been no injuries. However, many defied the order and returned to tend their homes and animals. As many as six people were listed as missing, having apparently gone searching for their animals on the SE side of the volcano. [The people listed as missing were forced to make a detour because their normal route was covered by pumice and ash, but they arrived safely 3 days after the eruption.]

References. Gardeweg, M.C., Sparks, S., Matthews, S., Fuentealba, G., Murillo, M, and Espinoza, A., 1993, V Informe sobre el comportamiento del Volcán Lascar (II Región): Enero Marzo 1993, Informe Inédito, Biblioteca Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería, 14 p.

Oppenheimer, C., Francis, P.W., Rothery, D.A., Carlton, R.W.T., and Glaze, L.S., 1993, Infrared image analysis of volcanic thermal features: Lascar volcano, Chile, 1984-1992, Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 98, p. 4269-4286.

Geologic Background. Láscar is the most active volcano of the northern Chilean Andes. The andesitic-to-dacitic stratovolcano contains six overlapping summit craters. Prominent lava flows descend its NW flanks. An older, higher stratovolcano 5 km E, Volcán Aguas Calientes, displays a well-developed summit crater and a probable Holocene lava flow near its summit (de Silva and Francis, 1991). Láscar consists of two major edifices; activity began at the eastern volcano and then shifted to the western cone. The largest eruption took place about 26,500 years ago, and following the eruption of the Tumbres scoria flow about 9000 years ago, activity shifted back to the eastern edifice, where three overlapping craters were formed. Frequent small-to-moderate explosive eruptions have been recorded since the mid-19th century, along with periodic larger eruptions that produced ashfall hundreds of kilometers away. The largest historical eruption took place in 1993, producing pyroclastic flows to 8.5 km NW of the summit and ashfall in Buenos Aires.

Information Contacts: M. Gardeweg and A. Espinoza, SERNAGEOMIN, Santiago; E. Medina, Univ Católica del Norte, Antofagasta; M. Murillo, Univ de la Frontera, Temuca, Chile; J. Viramonte, R. Marini, R. Bocchio, and R. Pereyra, Univ Nacional de Salta, Instituto Geonorte - CONICET, Argentina; R. Seggiaro, M. Bosso, N. Monegatti, and M. Bolli, Univ Nacional de Salta, Instituto Geonorte, Argentina; R. Ortiz Ramis, CSIC, J. Gutierrez Abascal, Spain; I. Torrejón, Esccuela Básica G-29, Talabre, Chile; D. Rothery, C. Oppenheimer, and P. Francis, Open Univ; J. Lynch, SAB; G. Stephens, NOAA; American Embassy, Santiago, Chile.

Carbonatite lava extrusion since February 1992 has centered on [T20] (figure 27). Lava production has continued since September [1992] as new lava flows from T20 have surrounded other cones with up to 4 m of new material.

Figure 27. Panorama of Ol Doinyo Lengai crater on 23 February 1993 looking SW from the E rim (top) and looking E from the W rim (bottom). Crater diameter is ~330 m. Drawn by C. Nyamweru from photographs taken by H. Martin and P. Robinson.

Although no activity was observed on 23 February when David Peterson, Paul Robinson, and a group of St. Lawrence Univ students descended to the crater floor for ~3.5 hours in the morning, morphological changes indicated continued lava production from vent T20. Heather Martin reported that no liquid lava was visible in the vents or on the crater floor, but that steam was being emitted from almost all of the vents, especially T5/T9 and T20 (figure 27), and from the base of the W inner crater wall. There was also a strong smell of sulfur near the vents, and intermittent rumbling, thumping, and cracking noises were heard coming from beneath the crater floor and the two vents named above. The crater floor consisted of large, relatively smooth, but heavily cracked, pale grayish-tan plates. Crystalline sulfur deposits (green/yellow/rust/white) were present along cracks. No dark, fresh flows were observed. The E-W diameter of the crater was estimated to be 330 m, and the E wall behind T5/T9 was estimated to be 32 m high. Rim cone C1 and feature A5 were very pale compared to the color of the rest of the N wall.

The upper 5 m of cone T8 was still visible after being partially buried by several younger lava flows, now white in color. The vent on the E side of the summit of T14 remained open, although younger white-to-pale gray lavas have also surrounded this 6.4-m-high cone. Yellow sulfur staining was visible on the upper slopes of both the T8 and T14 cones. Vent T5/T9 (21 m high) remained the tallest feature on the crater floor, though the sharp junction at the base of the cone indicates that it has also been surrounded by younger flows. There have been no noticeable changes since last September to the 8-m-high T15 cone, which still has pale-gray lower slopes and jagged dark upper slopes. Vent T19 and feature D, possibly an older lava flow that has been visible for several years (figure 26), have apparently been completely buried by younger flows.

Based on the depth of lava that has surrounded the older T5/T9, T8, and T14 cones (1.5-4 m), the base of the crater wall, and the remains of the M2 spur, it is clear that a considerable volume of lava has been extruded since . . . 30 September 1992. The source of most or all of this lava appears to be the T20 vent . . . . Vent T20 has blackened upper slopes with an open vent on the W upper slope and a lava tunnel 2-3 m deep and 1-2 m high that extends ~50 m to the SE. The smooth lava that gently slopes up from the crater floor around T20 resulted in height estimates for T20 that varied between 7 and 14 m.

Geologic Background. The symmetrical Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only volcano known to have erupted carbonatite tephras and lavas in historical time. The prominent stratovolcano, known to the Maasai as "The Mountain of God," rises abruptly above the broad plain south of Lake Natron in the Gregory Rift Valley. The cone-building stage ended about 15,000 years ago and was followed by periodic ejection of natrocarbonatitic and nephelinite tephra during the Holocene. Historical eruptions have consisted of smaller tephra ejections and emission of numerous natrocarbonatitic lava flows on the floor of the summit crater and occasionally down the upper flanks. The depth and morphology of the northern crater have changed dramatically during the course of historical eruptions, ranging from steep crater walls about 200 m deep in the mid-20th century to shallow platforms mostly filling the crater. Long-term lava effusion in the summit crater beginning in 1983 had by the turn of the century mostly filled the northern crater; by late 1998 lava had begun overflowing the crater rim.

Information Contacts: C. Nyamweru, St. Lawrence Univ; D. Peterson, Arusha; P. Robinson, Nairobi, Kenya; H. Martin, Norwood, NY; A. Prime, Hingham, MA.

"Activity . . . continued at the very low level reported in March. Emissions from both summit craters consisted of weak-to-moderate white vapour. No night glow was reported. Seismic activity was low throughout April and the tilt measurements showed no trends."

Geologic Background. The 10-km-wide island of Manam, lying 13 km off the northern coast of mainland Papua New Guinea, is one of the country's most active volcanoes. Four large radial valleys extend from the unvegetated summit of the conical basaltic-andesitic stratovolcano to its lower flanks. These valleys channel lava flows and pyroclastic avalanches that have sometimes reached the coast. Five small satellitic centers are located near the island's shoreline on the northern, southern, and western sides. Two summit craters are present; both are active, although most observed eruptions have originated from the southern crater, concentrating eruptive products during much of the past century into the SE valley. Frequent eruptions, typically of mild-to-moderate scale, have been recorded since 1616. Occasional larger eruptions have produced pyroclastic flows and lava flows that reached flat-lying coastal areas and entered the sea, sometimes impacting populated areas.

Information Contacts: N. Lauer, R. Stewart, and C. McKee, RVO.

Fumarolic activity in the N part of the crater lake continued in April as gas columns rose to 500 m. One fumarole produced a jet-like sound, audible from an observation site 1 km S. Almost constant phreatic eruptions produced 1-2-m-high plumes in a light-green area near the center of the lake. The lake level dropped 1 m during April.

A seismograph located 2.7 km SW of the active crater recorded 4,115 low-frequency events (2-2.5 Hz) during April (figure 44). The highest daily total of the month was 319 on 5 April.

Figure 44. Seismic events/day recorded 2.7 km SW of the main crater of Poás, April 1993. Courtesy of OVSICORI.

Geologic Background. The broad vegetated edifice of Poás, one of the most active volcanoes of Costa Rica, contains three craters along a N-S line. The frequently visited multi-hued summit crater lakes of the basaltic-to-dacitic volcano are easily accessible by vehicle from the nearby capital city of San José. A N-S-trending fissure cutting the complex stratovolcano extends to the lower N flank, where it has produced the Congo stratovolcano and several lake-filled maars. The southernmost of the two summit crater lakes, Botos, last erupted about 7,500 years ago. The more prominent geothermally heated northern lake, Laguna Caliente, is one of the world's most acidic natural lakes, with a pH of near zero. It has been the site of frequent phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions since an eruption was reported in 1828. Eruptions often include geyser-like ejections of crater-lake water.

Information Contacts: E. Fernández, J. Barquero, V. Barboza, and W. Jimenez, OVSICORI.

"The number of earthquakes detected in April was 1,061, . . . still relatively high compared to background (250-350 earthquakes/month). Large swarms of >100 earthquakes occurred on 1, 3, and 21 April. No earthquakes were felt, suggesting that the largest event was M 2-2.5. The epicenters of the 52 accurately located earthquakes were mainly in the W and NE parts of the caldera seismic zone, similar to . . . March.

"Routine monthly levelling from Rabaul town to Matupit Island showed a small uplift at the S end of the island. Other parts of this levelling line showed no significant changes compared to March. Additional levelling along the N side of Greet Harbor showed a deflation of up to 13 mm since the last survey in August 1992.

"The relatively high level of seismicity with little or no associated ground uplift is reminiscent of activity recorded in mid-1986. The lack of significant uplift suggests that neither episode was related to any pronounced movement of magma within the caldera."

Geologic Background. The low-lying Rabaul caldera on the tip of the Gazelle Peninsula at the NE end of New Britain forms a broad sheltered harbor utilized by what was the island's largest city prior to a major eruption in 1994. The outer flanks of the asymmetrical shield volcano are formed by thick pyroclastic-flow deposits. The 8 x 14 km caldera is widely breached on the east, where its floor is flooded by Blanche Bay and was formed about 1,400 years ago. An earlier caldera-forming eruption about 7,100 years ago is thought to have originated from Tavui caldera, offshore to the north. Three small stratovolcanoes lie outside the N and NE caldera rims. Post-caldera eruptions built basaltic-to-dacitic pyroclastic cones on the caldera floor near the NE and W caldera walls. Several of these, including Vulcan cone, which was formed during a large eruption in 1878, have produced major explosive activity during historical time. A powerful explosive eruption in 1994 occurred simultaneously from Vulcan and Tavurvur volcanoes and forced the temporary abandonment of Rabaul city.

Information Contacts: N. Lauer, R. Stewart, and C. McKee, RVO.

A seismograph about 5 km SW of the active crater recorded 28 microearthquakes and four high-frequency earthquakes in April (figure 7).

Figure 7. Seismic events/day recorded 5 km SW of the active crater of Rincón de la Vieja. Courtesy of OVSICORA.

Geologic Background. Rincón de la Vieja, the largest volcano in NW Costa Rica, is a remote volcanic complex in the Guanacaste Range. The volcano consists of an elongated, arcuate NW-SE-trending ridge constructed within the 15-km-wide early Pleistocene Guachipelín caldera, whose rim is exposed on the south side. Sometimes known as the "Colossus of Guanacaste," it has an estimated volume of 130 km3 and contains at least nine major eruptive centers. Activity has migrated to the SE, where the youngest-looking craters are located. The twin cone of Santa María volcano, the highest peak of the complex, is located at the eastern end of a smaller, 5-km-wide caldera and has a 500-m-wide crater. A Plinian eruption producing the 0.25 km3 Río Blanca tephra about 3,500 years ago was the last major magmatic eruption. All subsequent eruptions, including numerous historical eruptions possibly dating back to the 16th century, have been from the prominent active crater containing a 500-m-wide acid lake located ENE of Von Seebach crater.

Information Contacts: E. Fernández, J. Barquero, V. Barboza, and W. Jimenez, OVSICORI.

An explosive eruption 22 April followed more than a month of seismic and explosive precursors. Almost daily explosive bursts from 18 March to 4 April sent eruptive clouds to 1-4 km above the summit. Shallow earthquake swarms increased in early April from 14 earthquakes on 4 April to 90 distinct earthquakes in a continuous swarm on 7 April, when the Level of Concern Code was raised to orange by geologists at the IVGG. Magnitudes were estimated to be about M 2 on 6 April. Steam and gas explosions with some ash content continued over the next 3 days with seismicity remaining at high levels. Earthquakes increased in number and magnitude 12-15 April, with a maximum of 124 earthquakes on 14 April.

A snowstorm prevented observations 17-19 April, but explosions from the volcano were heard in Kliuchi (45 km SW) every few seconds on the 19th. Numerous gas and steam bursts occurred from the active dome 19-20 April. The gas-and-ash plume rose 800 m above the crater rim and drifted SW. Two spine-like or obelisk-shaped extrusions, 30-40 m high, were observed on the summit dome 20 April by geologists from IVGG and the IV. Shallow seismicity beneath the dome began to migrate towards the surface that same day. Seismicity began decreasing 19 April, and had declined sharply by the 21st. Gas and steam bursts rose to 600 m above the dome on 21 April.

The climactic eruption began the morning of 22 April. IV scientists reported explosions at the dome and from the crater near the dome beginning at 1030. The eruption cloud was ~7 km high by 1042 and >10 km high at 1313. The cloud obscured the volcano after the explosions until about 1600 when the lower part of the cloud was blown E and the upper part W. The eruption also produced pyroclastic flows and mud flows >10 km long.

The Level of Concern Code was raised to red on 22 April by IVGG geologists, who reported strong explosions at 1205 and 1230. At 1205 the eruptive cloud rose 6 km above the crater rim . . . and then to 15 km by 1330. The lower part of the ash cloud was moving WSW, and the upper portion was moving SE. Lightning was seen within the cloud. At 1340 the height of the eruption column was estimated to be 18 km (~20 km altitude). The ash cloud was detected drifting W by a weather satellite at 1432. By 1545, the ash cloud was moving WSW over the Kamchatka Peninsula. Pyroclastic flows down the flanks of the volcano reached 900 m elev, and mud flows extended 100 m lower.

The next morning, at 0530 on 23 April, another explosive ash eruption sent a column to 9-11 km altitude with the cloud moving in different directions at different altitudes. Bad weather prevented visual helicopter inspections of the crater area that day, but ash had started falling in . . . Kliuchi during the night and continued past 0800, stopping sometime later in the day. Strong winds rapidly redistributed the ash making thickness estimates difficult; however no more than 3 mm of ash appears to have fallen on the town, 45 km SW. Seismic activity decreased in the 24 hours after the eruption, and the Level of Concern Code was lowered to orange. No new pyroclastic flows or mudflows were observed on the lower flanks of the volcano.

IV also reported single explosions continuing on 23 April. The ash column was 3 km high and ashfall also occurred in Ust'-Kamchatsk (100 km SE). Baidarnaya station (8 km from active crater) registered 27 earthquakes on 23 April with amplitudes of 2-4 µm.

The volcano became visible 24 April, and a gas and steam column 4.5 km high was observed by IVGG at 2230, drifting to the N. Shimmering lights inside the crater were observed during the night. Seismicity was twice that recorded 22 April, and 20 earthquakes were detected in addition to constant low-amplitude tremor beneath the crater. An explosive burst was recorded seismically at 0619 on 25 April. A steam-and-ash column to 3.5 km above the crater was observed that day at 0530 and 0730, with a >30-km-long plume directed NNW.

Clouds again prevented visual observations 26-29 April, but the Level of Concern Code was lowered to yellow on 27 April because of the overall decline in volcanic activity. However, seismicity remained above background levels during this period with 36 earthquakes recorded on 27 April. Shallow, low-amplitude tremor was also continuing beneath the active dome.

Separate strong explosions were observed by IV geologists once every few days from 24 April to 3 May. The height of the ash cloud during the last days reached 1.5-2 km.

Thermal capacity and volume of ejected pyroclastics were calculated based on powerful explosions on 21 April at 2242-2258 (plume 6 km above the crater); 22 April at 0013-0026 (>10 km), 1104-1110, 1630 (7 km), and 2030, and 24 April at 1719 (3.5 km). Tremor amplitude was as much as 35 microns, with a period 0.6-0.9s (7.5 km from the active dome). Based on the height of the eruptive cloud and tremor, calculations indicate that the thermal capacity of the plume was about 1-50 x 10⁹ MJ, with about 1-50 x 10⁶ tons of ejected pyroclastics. Calculations were made by V. V. Ivanov (IV) using the methods of Fedotov (1985) and Firstov and others (1977).

References. Fedotov, S. A., 1985, Estimates of heat and pyroclast discharge by volcanic eruptions based upon the eruption cloud and steady plume observations: Journal of Geodynamics, v. 3, p. 275-302.

Firstov, P. P., Lemzikov, V. K., and Rulenko, O. P., 1977, Seismic regime of Karymsky volcano (1970-1973): Volcanism and Geodynamics, p. 161-179 (in Russian).

Geologic Background. The high, isolated massif of Sheveluch volcano (also spelled Shiveluch) rises above the lowlands NNE of the Kliuchevskaya volcano group. The 1,300 km3 andesitic volcano is one of Kamchatka's largest and most active volcanic structures, with at least 60 large eruptions during the Holocene. The summit of roughly 65,000-year-old Stary Shiveluch is truncated by a broad 9-km-wide late-Pleistocene caldera breached to the south. Many lava domes occur on its outer flanks. The Molodoy Shiveluch lava dome complex was constructed during the Holocene within the large open caldera; Holocene lava dome extrusion also took place on the flanks of Stary Shiveluch. Widespread tephra layers from these eruptions have provided valuable time markers for dating volcanic events in Kamchatka. Frequent collapses of dome complexes, most recently in 1964, have produced debris avalanches whose deposits cover much of the floor of the breached caldera.

Information Contacts: V. Kirianov, IVGG; S. Fedotov, V. Ivanov, G. Bogoyavlenskaya, V. Gavrilov, and N. Zharinov, IV; J. Lynch, SAB.

Steve Matthews and Abigail Church observed vigorous Strombolian activity on 22 April at two 20-m-high hornitos in crater C1 (figure 29). Incandescent gas explosions occurred at 3-10 second intervals, followed ~0.5 seconds later by ejection of spatter. Semi-liquid bombs up to 2 m across reached up to 100 m above the vents. Stronger activity from all three craters every 10-20 minutes consisted of gas emissions lasting as long as 15 seconds that ejected spatter as high as 250 m. These stronger events appeared to occur in pairs from craters C3 and C2. An explosion from C3's vent 4 was often followed a few minutes later by an explosion from vent 2 in C2. Within C1, these larger explosions were only produced from the NE hornito (vent 1). Many incandescent fumaroles were visible on the hornitos and the floors of all three craters. Small amounts of spatter were also ejected from the fumaroles during the strongest explosive episodes. At about 2030, shortly after sunset, lava was observed flowing slowly from a breach or bocca in the SW hornito (vent 2) in C1. When observations ended at 2200, the lava flow had divided and was beginning to form a moat around the hornitos.

Figure 29. Sketch of the summit craters and vents at Stromboli, 22 April (top), and 3 May 1993 (bottom). Crater walls could not be distinguished on 3 May due to the abundant gas and steam. Vent numbers are in parentheses. Field of view is ~200 m across. Courtesy of S. Matthews, A. Church, and S. O'Meara.

A high level of eruptive activity was reported by Steve O'Meara on 2-6 May. Roaring noises could be heard in San Vincenzo (~2.5 km NE) the afternoon of 2 May, which became periodic by late afternoon, occurring about once every 20-30 minutes. A gray fountain was observed from the lower NE slopes around 1830 that rose several hundred meters above the NE-most vent. Several strong explosions later that evening sent incandescent boulders rolling down the steep slope of the Sciara del Fuoco (figure 29). There were at least 8 vents active for several hours during summit observations the night of 3-4 May. Eruptive activity increased dramatically after the nearly full moon rose, peaked when the moon culminated in the southern sky, and waned before moonset. Lunar perigee (when the moon is closest to the Earth) occurred that night around 0100.

Vent 1 in crater C1 (figure 29) was a large dome-shaped mound with a summit crater and shallow floor filled with incandescent bombs from other vent explosions. Approximately every 30 minutes a powerful explosive blast, which sounded like a large cannon firing, violently blew the debris from the vent to heights of 200-300 m. Increased crater glow preceded these eruptions and most others. C1's vent 2 is a small cone with a peanut-shaped throat adjacent to and W of vent 1. This vent was continuously active with jetting sounds, blue flames, and spatter ejection. Thin streams of lava were erupted about every 5 minutes, with larger 100-m sprays of lava about every 15 minutes. Vent 3 in C1 (E of and adjacent to vent 1) exhibited continuous glow and erupted synchronously with either vent 1 or vent 2, ejecting material to a height of ~100 m. Occasionally, vents 1-3 would erupt together. Ejecta from vent 3 was directed slightly NE, while blasts from vents 1 and 2 were directed vertically. These explosions only lasted for a few seconds. Another less-active vent in C1, S of and adjacent to vent 1, also appeared to erupt synchronously with vents 1-3 to heights of tens of meters.

In crater C2, vent 1 had three glowing components, though only the western-most one produced sporadic minor eruptions, spraying lava ~10-30 m above its steep, narrow cone. Eruptions from vent 2 in C2 occurred every 30-45 minutes and lasted 20-40 seconds each. Eruptions began with a strong jetting sound, after which a thin spray of lava would shoot out, followed by more vigorous jetting and extensive lava production. Lava fountains reached heights of up to 150 m. Lava was visible in the vent for about a minute after each eruption, with the surface continually being fractured by escaping gases. The lava would then slowly sink into the vent until it was no longer visible, although glow remained.

Two small adjacent vents in crater C3 were each surrounded by wide, shallow cinder rims. Eruptions were more frequent at the W vent, where explosions sent material 300-400 m high about every 10 minutes during the most active periods. These eruptions occurred without warning and were accompanied by a loud roaring noise. The largest eruptions from this vent produced very broad, expansive plumes shaped like large evergreen trees, which reached 30 m above the summit of the volcano. Another vent farther S may also have erupted, but that area was obscured by fumes and steam.

The frequency of eruptions from each vent changed with time, but not the sounds, making it possible to know which vents were erupting. By the morning of 3 May, activity had declined to one large explosion and a couple of smaller ones approximately every 20 minutes. During the most active periods of the night, >20 strong eruptions occurred every hour. Activity increased again after moonrise on 4 May and remained strong into the early morning. Orange glow reflected by the clouds was observed that night in San Vincenzo. The next day, powerful eruptions continued from crater C3 and vent 1 in C1, but with less frequency. Vents 2 and 3 in C1 glowed but did not have any strong eruptions. Observations ended about 2400 on 5 May. Seven eruptions were seen from the ferry 2100-2200 on 6 May.

Marcello Riuscetti reports that Stromboli guides observed a new cone in crater C1 and renewed activity at the C3 spatter cone in mid-May. On 16 May a small lava emission occurred from the base of a cone in C3. During the night the flow traveled 30 m down the slope, reaching the feeding fissure of the 1985 eruption before stopping. The flow resumed 18 May, covering ~60 m of 1985 lava NE towards the Sciara del Fuoco. Strong tremor and frequent explosions accompanied the lava flow.

Seismicity (number and energy of shocks, tremor energy) increased in March and April after the low of 11 February (18:02). The level of seismicity was very high in April (figure 30), with nearly continuous explosions in the second and third weeks.

Figure 30. Seismicity recorded at Stromboli, March-April 1993. Open bars show the number of recorded events/day, the solid bars those with ground velocities >100 mm/s. The lines show daily tremor energy computed by averaging hourly 60-second samples. The number of daily events are off the scale for the 2nd and 3rd weeks of April due to the nearly continuous explosions during that period. Courtesy of M. Riuscetti.

Geologic Background. Spectacular incandescent nighttime explosions at Stromboli have long attracted visitors to the "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean" in the NE Aeolian Islands. This volcano has lent its name to the frequent mild explosive activity that has characterized its eruptions throughout much of historical time. The small island is the emergent summit of a volcano that grew in two main eruptive cycles, the last of which formed the western portion of the island. The Neostromboli eruptive period took place between about 13,000 and 5,000 years ago. The active summit vents are located at the head of the Sciara del Fuoco, a prominent scarp that formed about 5,000 years ago due to a series of slope failures which extends to below sea level. The modern volcano has been constructed within this scarp, which funnels pyroclastic ejecta and lava flows to the NW. Essentially continuous mild Strombolian explosions, sometimes accompanied by lava flows, have been recorded for more than a millennium.

Information Contacts: S. Matthews, Univ College London, London; A. Church, Natural History Museum, London; S. O'Meara, Sky & Telescope; M. Riuscetti, Univ di Udine.

Sporadic, weak ash eruptions continued in April. The island's residents heard explosions [during] 22-26 April.

Geologic Background. The 8-km-long island of Suwanosejima in the northern Ryukyu Islands consists of an andesitic stratovolcano with two active summit craters. The summit is truncated by a large breached crater extending to the sea on the E flank that was formed by edifice collapse. One of Japan's most frequently active volcanoes, it was in a state of intermittent Strombolian activity from Otake, the NE summit crater, between 1949 and 1996, after which periods of inactivity lengthened. The largest recorded eruption took place in 1813-14, when thick scoria deposits covered residential areas, and the SW crater produced two lava flows that reached the western coast. At the end of the eruption the summit of Otake collapsed, forming a large debris avalanche and creating an open collapse scarp extending to the eastern coast. The island remained uninhabited for about 70 years after the 1813-1814 eruption. Lava flows reached the eastern coast of the island in 1884. Only about 50 people live on the island.

Information Contacts: JMA.

An eruption that sent a lava flow ~60 m downslope was reported on 25 April by the Islamic Republic News Agency. No additional information about the timing or location of the activity was available. There was apparently no immediate danger to the local population.

Geologic Background. Taftan is a strongly eroded andesitic stratovolcano with two prominent summits. The volcano was constructed along the Makran-Chagai Arc in SE Iran. The higher SE summit cone has been the source of lava flows, as well as of highly active, sulfur-encrusted fumaroles. In January 1902 the volcano was reported to be smoking heavily for several days, with occasional strong night-time glow. A lava flow was reported in 1993, but may have been a mistaken observation of a molten sulfur flow. Despite these reports there is no clear evidence for Holocene activity. The youngest date obtained by Pang et al. (2014), using U-Pb on a zircon, was about 800 ka. Biabangard and Moradian (2008) obtained K-Ar dates around 700 ka.

Information Contacts: AP; Reuters.

Fumarolic activity continued in the N, W, and SW walls of the main crater. Temperatures at the fumaroles, 90°C, have remained relatively unchanged since 1982 (17:02). A condensate sample had a pH of 4.5, similar to the pH of 4.8 recorded in December 1992 (17:12). Small landslides from the N, S, and W walls continued.

Geologic Background. Turrialba, the easternmost of Costa Rica's Holocene volcanoes, is a large vegetated basaltic-to-dacitic stratovolcano located across a broad saddle NE of Irazú volcano overlooking the city of Cartago. The massive edifice covers an area of 500 km2. Three well-defined craters occur at the upper SW end of a broad 800 x 2200 m summit depression that is breached to the NE. Most activity originated from the summit vent complex, but two pyroclastic cones are located on the SW flank. Five major explosive eruptions have occurred during the past 3500 years. A series of explosive eruptions during the 19th century were sometimes accompanied by pyroclastic flows. Fumarolic activity continues at the central and SW summit craters.

Information Contacts: E. Fernández, J. Barquero, V. Barboza, and Walter Jimenez, OVSICORI.

"Activity continued at the low levels reported in the previous two months. Emissions of weak-to-moderate white vapour occurred throughout April, with stronger emissions on 3 and 6 April. Seismic activity was low throughout the month. RSAM showed that the slow decline in tremor amplitude seen in March continued until 20 April. After 20 April, the tremor amplitude remained constant, indicating that tremor had effectively ceased and the natural background noise was being recorded."

Geologic Background. The symmetrical basaltic-to-andesitic Ulawun stratovolcano is the highest volcano of the Bismarck arc, and one of Papua New Guinea's most frequently active. The volcano, also known as the Father, rises above the N coast of the island of New Britain across a low saddle NE of Bamus volcano, the South Son. The upper 1,000 m is unvegetated. A prominent E-W escarpment on the south may be the result of large-scale slumping. Satellitic cones occupy the NW and E flanks. A steep-walled valley cuts the NW side, and a flank lava-flow complex lies to the south of this valley. Historical eruptions date back to the beginning of the 18th century. Twentieth-century eruptions were mildly explosive until 1967, but after 1970 several larger eruptions produced lava flows and basaltic pyroclastic flows, greatly modifying the summit crater.

Information Contacts: N. LauerR. Stewart, and C. McKee, RVO.

The swelling of dome 10 and local deformation of the basement rocks N of the dome complex had stopped by mid-April. Large blocks of dome 10 that overhung to the W and N collapsed and scattered around Jigokuato crater, filling it and covering a part of the 1663 lava flow.

Exogenous growth of dome 11 continued. The volume of dome 11 remained constant, implying that the volume of magma supplied to the dome was equal to that lost because of collapses. By mid-May, dome 11 was 150 m long, 150 m wide, and 70 m high.

The seismic network recorded ~ 10 pyroclastic flows/day until 27 April. On 28 and 29 April (both rainy days), 39 and 26 pyroclastic flows were detected, respectively. These were the highest daily totals since 25 September 1992. The monthly total of flows was 352, twice that of March.

The pyroclastic flows, almost all generated by collapses of dome 11, descended mainly E into Mizunashi Valley, NE into Oshiga Valley, and only rarely SE (figure 55). Several flows traveled through Oshiga Valley and entered the Mizunashi River, and some flows entered a headwater of the Nakao River, the upper stream of the Senbongi district. The limit of the flow deposits has been moving slowly N. The longest flow of the month occurred at 1016 on 29 April, traveling 3.5 km E from the dome complex and having a seismic duration of 160 seconds. Ash clouds from the flows rose ~ 1 km above the dome complex, generally higher than those of the past 4 months. The highest cloud rose 1.3 km on 26 April. A pilot reported a very dense, dark-gray column rising to 900 m above the summit and drifting SSE at 1818 on 25 April. The pyroclastic flows caused no damage.

Figure 55. Map showing distribution of pyroclastic-flow and debris-flow deposits at Unzen, May 1993. Courtesy of S. Nakada.

Heavy rainfall on 28-29 April and 2 May generated the largest debris flows of the current eruption, both along the Mizunashi and Nakao rivers. Flows traveled E across highways 57 and 251, and the Shimabara railway, damaging about 500 houses. Prior to the flows, ~ 7,000 people had been asked to evacuate, and no injuries were reported. People were able to return after the rains. The highways were reopened 4 May after the sediment was removed, but the railway remained buried as of mid-May. The Civil Engineer of Nagasaki Prefectural Government estimated the total volume of debris in the Mizunashi River to be > 10⁶ m³.

The number of microearthquakes detected under the dome complex declined . . . to 656 in April. A weak swarm occurred 19-24 April when daily totals increased by a factor of 5. Seismicity near the volcano was low.

The Geographical Survey Institute estimated the total volume of magma erupted from May 1991 to early-March 1993 to be 0.13 km³, and the volume of the dome complex to be 0.05 km³ based on digital mapping data. Over 2,000 residents remain evacuated from Shimabara and Fukae.

Geologic Background. The massive Unzendake volcanic complex comprises much of the Shimabara Peninsula east of the city of Nagasaki. An E-W graben, 30-40 km long, extends across the peninsula. Three large stratovolcanoes with complex structures, Kinugasa on the north, Fugen-dake at the east-center, and Kusenbu on the south, form topographic highs on the broad peninsula. Fugendake and Mayuyama volcanoes in the east-central portion of the andesitic-to-dacitic volcanic complex have been active during the Holocene. The Mayuyama lava dome complex, located along the eastern coast west of Shimabara City, formed about 4000 years ago and was the source of a devastating 1792 CE debris avalanche and tsunami. Historical eruptive activity has been restricted to the summit and flanks of Fugendake. The latest activity during 1990-95 formed a lava dome at the summit, accompanied by pyroclastic flows that caused fatalities and damaged populated areas near Shimabara City.

Information Contacts: JMA; S. Nakada, Kyushu Univ; ICAO.