Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report

The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report is a cooperative project between the Smithsonian's Global Volcanism Program and the US Geological Survey's Volcano Hazards Program. Updated by 2300 UTC every Wednesday and averaging 16 reported volcanoes, this is not a comprehensive list of all eruptions this week, but rather a summary of activity that meet criteria discussed in the "Criteria and Disclaimers" section below.

Volcanic activity reported here is preliminary and subject to change. Carefully reviewed, detailed narratives over longer time periods are published as reports of the Bulletin of the Global Volcanism Network available through volcano profile pages.

Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for the week of 6 August-12 August 2008
Name	Location	Eruption Start Date	Report Status
Asamayama	Honshu (Japan)	—	New
Bezymianny	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	2016 Dec 5	New
Kasatochi	Andreanof Islands (USA)	—	New
Klyuchevskoy	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	2023 Jun 22	New
Mayon	Luzon (Philippines)	2023 Apr 27 ± 2 days	New
Aira	Kyushu (Japan)	2017 Mar 25	Continuing
Anatahan	Mariana Islands (USA)	—	Continuing
Batu Tara	Komba Island	—	Continuing
Chaiten	Southern Chile	—	Continuing
Chikurachki	Paramushir Island (Russia)	—	Continuing
Cleveland	Chuginadak Island (USA)	—	Continuing
Karymsky	Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)	—	Continuing
Kilauea	Hawaiian Islands (USA)	—	Continuing
Krakatau	Sunda Strait	—	Continuing
Okmok	Fox Islands (USA)	—	Continuing
Piton de la Fournaise	Reunion Island (France)	—	Continuing
Rabaul	New Britain (Papua New Guinea)	—	Continuing
Reventador	Ecuador	2008 Jul 27	Continuing
Semeru	Eastern Java	2017 Jun 6	Continuing
Sheveluch	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	1999 Aug 15	Continuing
Soufriere Hills	Montserrat	—	Continuing
Suwanosejima	Ryukyu Islands (Japan)	2004 Oct 23	Continuing
Tungurahua	Ecuador	—	Continuing

All times are local unless otherwise stated.

Asamayama | 6 August-12 August 2008 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Asamayama
Honshu (Japan)

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 10 and 11 August eruption plumes from Asama rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE and S, respectively.

Source: Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Bezymianny | 6 August-12 August 2008 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Bezymianny
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

Based on observations of satellite imagery, KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly detected over Bezymianny's lava dome grew in area and intensified during 9-11 August. Based on interpretations of seismic data, four hot avalanches occurred on 10 August and nine occurred on 11 August. On 12 August, the level of Concern Color Code was raised to Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Kasatochi | 6 August-12 August 2008 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Kasatochi
Andreanof Islands (USA)

On 6 August, AVO raised the Volcano Alert Level for Kasatochi to Advisory and the Aviation Color Code to Yellow based on increased seismicity detected that day by instruments in the area and by field crews on the island the previous few days. Kasatochi lacks dedicated seismometers and is monitored by neighboring networks.

On 7 August, earthquake activity continued; events as large as M 5.6 were detected. Crews reported rockfalls, ground shaking lasting 5-10 minutes, and a strong sulfur smell. Periods of volcanic tremor prompted AVO to raise the Volcano Alert Level to Watch and the Aviation Color Code to Orange. Later that day, an ash plume at an altitude of at least 10.7 km (35,000 ft) a.s.l. was detected on satellite imagery drifting SSW. The Volcano Alert Level was raised to Warning and the Aviation Color Code was raised to Red. Reports from a marine vessel in the area indicated ashfall and tephra up to pebble size, spectacular lightning, and total darkness for a little over 2 hours. Three major explosive eruptions produced ash plumes that rose to an altitude of 13.7 km (45,000 ft) a.s.l.

Ash emissions became continuous on 8 August following the last explosive event; an ash plume drifted for more than 950 km in a counterclockwise spiral at altitudes of about 9.1-13.7 km (30,000-45,000 ft) a.s.l. Seismicity decreased, although remained elevated, and ash emissions became less frequent. During 8-9 August, seismicity decreased to a level undetectable by stations on Great Sitkin, about 40 km W. On 9 August ash plumes were detected on satellite imagery early in the day; clouds prevented views during the rest of the day. The Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Watch and the Aviation Color Code to Orange. The ash plume from the third eruption on 7 August was seen on satellite imagery 1,850 km ESE of the volcano and was elongated NE-SW over 1,200 km.

According to news articles, flights from Alaska to several west coast cities were cancelled on 10 and 11 August. During 10-12 August, AVO reported that seismicity remained low, but detectable by the network on Great Sitkin.

Sources: The Seattle Times Company, US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Klyuchevskoy | 6 August-12 August 2008 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Klyuchevskoy
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Kliuchevskoi had slowly increased since June and was slightly above background levels during 1-8 August. Observations of satellite imagery revealed that the size and intensity of a thermal anomaly in the crater increased. On 8 August, the level of Concern Color Code was raised to Yellow.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Mayon | 6 August-12 August 2008 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Mayon
Luzon (Philippines)

On 10 August, a mild explosion from Mayon produced an ash plume to an altitude of 2.7 km (8,900 ft) a.s.l. and drifted ENE. PHIVOLCS reported that during the previous few weeks seismic activity had increased slightly and incandescence at the crater had intensified. The Alert Level remained at 1. The 7-km Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the SE flank and the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) in all other areas remained in effect.

Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Aira | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Aira
Kyushu (Japan)

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 10 August an eruption plume from Sakura-jima rose to an altitude greater than 2.7 km (9,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW.

Source: Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Anatahan | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Anatahan
Mariana Islands (USA)

During 7-8 August, small sulfur dioxide plumes from Anatahan were visible on satellite imagery. On 8 August, seismicity decreased significantly. During 8-9 August, steam plumes with small amounts of ash rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. On 12 August, the Volcanic Alert Level was lowered to Advisory and the Aviation Color Code to Yellow.

Source: Emergency Management Office of the Commonwealth of the Mariana Islands and United States Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program

Batu Tara | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Batu Tara
Komba Island

Based on a pilot report and observations of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 6-8 and 10-11 August ash plumes from Batu Tara rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and NW.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Chaiten | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Chaiten
Southern Chile

Based on web camera views, SIGMET reports, observations of satellite imagery, and information from the Puerto Montt Flight Information Region (FIR), the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that during 7-8 August ash plumes from Chaitén rose to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and NE.

Source: Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Chikurachki | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Chikurachki
Paramushir Island (Russia)

Based on observations of satellite imagery, KVERT reported that eruptive activity from Chikurachki continued during 1-8 August. Ash plumes drifted more than 60 km SE, W, and N during 1-3 August. The level of seismicity was unknown because Chikurachki lacks dedicated seismic instruments. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Cleveland | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Cleveland
Chuginadak Island (USA)

On 6 August, AVO reported that the thermal anomalies noted at Cleveland's summit and on the W, S, and SE flanks had decreased in intensity since first noted on 21 July, indicating that the lava flows slowed or stopped. The Volcanic Alert Level was lowered to Advisory and the Aviation Color Code to Yellow. During 7-10 August, a weak thermal anomaly at the summit was intermittently visible when not obscured by clouds and drifting ash from the eruption of Kasatochi (about 400 km WSW). On 11 August, thermal anomalies on satellite imagery indicated that lava flowed down the flanks. The Volcano Alert Level was raised to Watch and the Aviation Color Code to Orange. On 12 August, an ash plume rose to an altitude of 7.6 km (25,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 100 km SW.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Karymsky | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Karymsky
Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Karymsky was above background levels during 1-8 August and possibly indicated that explosions produced ash plumes to an altitude of 3.1 km (10,200 ft) a.s.l. Observations of satellite imagery revealed a thermal anomaly in the crater on 2 August; clouds inhibited views on other days. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Based on observations of satellite imagery and information from KEMSD, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 11 August an eruption plume rose to an altitude of 3.4 km (11,000 ft) a.s.l.

Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Kilauea | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kilauea
Hawaiian Islands (USA)

HVO reported that during 6 and 9-12 August lava flowed SE through a lava tube system from underneath Kilauea's Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex to the Waikupanaha ocean entry. Occasional explosions and surface lava flows were noted near the ocean entry. A small fountain in a lava pond at the top of one of the rootless shields was observed on 10 August. The sulfur dioxide emission rate at Pu'u 'O'o was 1,700 and 2,400 tonnes per day on 8 and 9 August, respectively; the average background rate is about 2,000 tonnes per day.

During the reporting period, Kilauea earthquakes were variously located beneath Halema'uma'u crater, along the Koa'e fault system, SE and W of the caldera, along the S-flank faults, and along the E and SW rift zones. Beneath Halema'uma'u crater, up to 100 small earthquakes per day (background is 20-40) also occurred but were too small to be located more precisely. The vent in Halema'uma'u crater continued to produce a mainly white plume with minor ash content that drifted SW. The plume was occasionally tinged brown. Night-time incandescence was seen at the base of the plume rock-clattering sounds were heard in the vicinity of the crater. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was high at 900 tonnes per day on 7 August. The pre-2008 background rate was 150-200 tonnes per day.

Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Krakatau | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Krakatau
Sunda Strait

According to a news article, eruptions from Anak Krakatau increased in frequency during 10-11 August. On 12 August, monitoring personnel reported that active lava flows and emissions of thick "smoke" continued but that the frequency of earthquakes and eruptions had declined.

Source: Antara News

Okmok | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Okmok
Fox Islands (USA)

AVO scientists observed the eruption of Okmok during a visit to Umnak Island on 2 and 3 August. They saw significant ashfall that had accumulated in the caldera and on the upper flanks, lahars and lahar deltas that formed in drainages from the SE to the NE flank, and continuous ash jets being emitted from three or more vents in the vicinity of Cone D in the NE sector of the caldera. Elevated seismicity was detected during 6-8 August, and declined on 9 August. According to observations of satellite imagery, steam plumes possibly containing ash rose to altitudes below 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. during 9-10 August. On 11 August, steam plumes rose to altitudes of less than 6.1 km (20,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE. Ash plumes that rose to around a hundred meters above the crater were reported by an observer in Nikolski (80 km SW). These plumes were not detected on satellite imagery due to cloud cover. On 12 August, a pilot reported an ash plume at an altitude of 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. The Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch and the Aviation Color Code remained at Orange.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Piton de la Fournaise | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Piton de la Fournaise
Reunion Island (France)

OVPDLF reported that a small seismic crisis beneath the summit of Piton de la Fournaise lasted about 10 minutes on 4 August. The strongest earthquake was a M 1.

Source: Observatoire Volcanologique du Piton de la Fournaise (OVPF)

Rabaul | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Rabaul
New Britain (Papua New Guinea)

RVO reported that ash plumes from Rabaul caldera's Tavurvur cone continued to be emitted during 4-10 August. Ashfall was reported in areas NW. Occasionally incandescence at the summit was observed and roaring noises were reported. Incandescent lava fragments were ejected along with some of the more forceful ash emissions. Based on observations of satellite imagery and information from RVO, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 11-12 August, low-level ash plumes rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW.

Sources: Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO), Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Reventador | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Reventador
Ecuador

The IG reported that steam-and-gas from Reventador was emitted during 6-8 August. Incandescence from the crater was observed at night on 8 August.

Source: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)

Semeru | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Semeru
Eastern Java

Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 7 August ash plumes from Semeru rose to an altitude of 4.3 km (14,100 ft) a.s.l. and that incandescent material was ejected from the crater. CVGHM indicated that the activity was normal; the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM), Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Sheveluch | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Sheveluch
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Shiveluch was slightly above background levels during 1-8 August, and possibly indicated that ash plumes from explosions rose to an altitude of 4.6 km (15,100 ft) a.s.l. on 6 August. Observations of satellite imagery revealed a thermal anomaly on the lava dome during 1-3 August. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Soufriere Hills | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Soufriere Hills
Montserrat

MVO reported that seismic levels from Soufrière Hills were relatively low during 1-8 August. Sulfur dioxide emissions (tons per day) were significantly higher than emissions prior to the partial lava-dome collapse on 28 July. Unconfirmed reports indicated the presence of an ash plume on 3 August. A small ash cloud was seen on 7 August.

Further investigation of the 28 July event revealed that the total amount of material that collapsed from the dome was about 200,000-300,000 cubic meters. Satellite radar images indicated that the vent above Gages wall was enlarged by the explosion to about 150 x 60 meters, elongated E-W. Precautionary access restrictions for areas in and around Belham valley were lifted because evidence suggested that the dome had not been destabilized due to the event.

A new Hazard Level System, designed by MVO and Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) in consultation with the Government of Montserrat and community groups, was implemented on 8 August. The system divides the southern two-thirds of the island into six zones, and includes two Maritime Exclusion Zones. The Hazard Level ranges from 1-5 and is set by the National Disaster Preparedness, Response, and Advisory Committee (NDPRAC) with advice from MVO. The Hazard Level restricts access into each of the zones depending on the number assigned and is unrelated to the Alert Level. The current Hazard Level was 3.

Source: Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO)

Suwanosejima | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Suwanosejima
Ryukyu Islands (Japan)

Based on reports from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 7 August an eruption plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l.

Source: Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Tungurahua | 6 August-12 August 2008 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Tungurahua
Ecuador

The IG reported that during 6-8 August, explosions from Tungurahua were detected by the seismic network. Although clouds mostly prevented visual observations, steam-and-ash plumes were observed; on 6 August, ash plumes rose to an altitude of 5.5 km (18,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W. Ashfall was reported in areas to the SW.

Source: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)

Weekly Reports Archive

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Criteria & Disclaimers

Criteria

The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report does not necessarily include all volcanic activity that occurred on Earth during the week. More than a dozen volcanoes globally have displayed more-or-less continuous eruptive activity for decades or longer, and such routine activity is typically not reported here. Moreover, Earth's sea-floor volcanism is seldom reported even though in theory it represents the single most prolific source of erupted material. The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report summarizes volcanic activity that meets one or more of the following criteria:

- A volcano observatory raises or lowers the alert level at the volcano.
- A volcanic ash advisory has been released by a volcanic ash advisory center (VAAC) stating that an ash cloud has been produced from the volcano.
- A verifiable news report of new activity or a change in activity at the volcano has been issued.
- Observers have reported a significant change in volcanic activity. Such activity can include, but is not restricted to, pyroclastic flows, lahars, lava flows, dome collapse, or increased unrest.

Volcanoes are included in the "New Activity/Unrest" section of the Weekly Volcanic Activity Report if the activity occurs after at least 3 months of quiescence. Once a volcano is included in the "New Activity/Unrest" section, updates will remain in that section unless the activity continues for more than 1 month without escalating, after which time updates will be listed in the "Continuing Activity" section. Volcanoes are also included in the "New Activity/Unrest" section if the volcano is undergoing a period of relatively high unrest, or increasing unrest. This is commonly equal to Alert Level Orange on a scale of Green, Yellow, Orange, Red, where Red is the highest alert. Or alert level 3 on a scale of 1-4 or 1-5.

It is important to note that volcanic activity meeting one or more of these criteria may occur during the week, but may not be included in the Weekly Volcanic Activity Report because we did not receive a report.

Disclaimers

1. The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report is intended to provide timely information about global volcanism on a weekly basis. Consequently, the report is generated rapidly by summarizing volcanic reports from various sources, with little time for fact checking. The accuracy of the Weekly Volcanic Activity Report is dependent upon the quality of the volcanic activity reports we receive. Reports published in the Bulletin of the Global Volcanism Network are cover longer time periods and are more carefully reviewed, although all of the volcanoes discussed in the Weekly Volcanic Activity Report are not necessarily reported in the Bulletin. Because of our emphasis on rapid reporting on the web we have avoided diacritical marks. Reports are updated on the Weekly Volcanic Activity Report web page as they are received, therefore information may be included regarding events that occurred before the current report period.

2. Rapidly developing events lead to coverage that is often fragmentary. Volcanoes, their eruptions, and their plumes and associated atmospheric effects are complex phenomena that may require months to years of data analysis in order to create a comprehensive summary and interpretation of events.

3. Preliminary accounts sometimes contain exaggerations and "false alarms," and accordingly, this report may include some events ultimately found to be erroneous or misleading.

4. Many news agencies do not archive the articles they post on the Internet, and therefore the links to some sources may not be active. To obtain information about the cited articles that are no longer available on the Internet contact the source.

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Information presented on this website is considered public information and may be distributed or copied. Use of appropriate byline/photo/image credit is requested. We strongly recommend that USGS data be acquired directly from a USGS server and not through other sources that may change the data in some way. While USGS makes every effort to provide accurate and complete information, various data such as names, telephone numbers, etc. may change prior to updating. USGS welcomes suggestions on how to improve our home page and correct errors. USGS provides no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of furnished data.

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U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA, USA
URL: https://volcano.si.edu/reports_weekly.cfm

Acronyms and Abbreviations

a.s.l. - above sea level

AVO - Alaska Volcano Observatory

AVHRR - Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer

CENAPRED - Centro Nacionale de Prevencion de Desastres (México)

CONRED - Coordinadora Nacional para la Reducción de Desastres

COSPEC - Correlation Spectrometer

CVGHM (formerly VSI) - Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation

CVO - Cascades Volcano Observatory (USGS)

GMS - Geostationary Meteorological Satellite

GOES - Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite

GVO - Goma Volcano Observatory

GVP - Global Volcanism Program (Smithsonian Institution)

HVO - Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (USGS)

ICE - Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (Costa Rica)

IG - Instituto Geofísico (Ecuador)

IGNS - Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (New Zealand) - now GNS Science

INETER - Instituto Nicaragüense de Estudios Territoriales (Nicaragua)

INGEMMET - Instituto Geológical Minero y Metalúrgico (Peru)

INGEOMINAS - Instituto Colombiano de Geología y Minería (Colombia)

INGV-CT - Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia - Sezione di Catania (Italy)

INSIVUMEH - Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia e Hidrologia (Guatemala)

IRD - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (France)

JMA - Japanese Meteorological Agency

KEMSD - Kamchatkan Experimental and Methodical Seismilogical Department

KVERT - Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team

M - magnitude

METEOSAT - Meteorological Satellite

MEVO - Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory

MODIS - Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer

MVO - Montserrat Volcano Observatory

MWO - Meteorological Watch Office

NEIC - National Earthquake Information Center

NIED - National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention (Japan)

NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NOTAM - Notice to Airmen

OVDAS - Observatorio Volcanologico de los Andes del Sur (Chile)

OFDA - Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance

ONEMI - Oficina Nacional de Emergencia - Ministerio del Interior (Chile)

OVPDLF - Observatoire Volcanologique du Piton de la Fournaise (France)

OVSICORI-UNA - Observatorio Vulcanologico y Sismologico de Costa Rica, Universidad Nacional (Costa Rica)

PHIVOLCS - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philippines)

RSAM - Real-time Seismic Amplitude Measurement

RVO - Rabaul Volcano Observatory

SERNAGEOMIN - Servicio Nacional de Geologia y Mineria (Chile)

SIGMET - Significant Meteorological Information

SNET - Servicio Nacional de Estudios Territoriales (El Salvador)

SVERT - Sakhalin Volcanic Eruption Response Team (Russia)

USAID - US Agency for International Development

USGS - United States Geological Survey

UTC - Coordinated Universal Time

VAAC - Volcanic Ash Advisory Center

VAFTAD - Volcanic Ash Forecast Transport And Dispersion

VDAP - Volcano Disaster Assistance Program (USGS)

VHP - Volcano Hazards Program (USGS)

VRC - Volcano Research Center (Japan)

Report for Asamayama
Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 10 and 11 August eruption plumes from Asama rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE and S, respectively.
Source: Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Bezymianny
Based on observations of satellite imagery, KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly detected over Bezymianny's lava dome grew in area and intensified during 9-11 August. Based on interpretations of seismic data, four hot avalanches occurred on 10 August and nine occurred on 11 August. On 12 August, the level of Concern Color Code was raised to Orange.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Kasatochi
On 6 August, AVO raised the Volcano Alert Level for Kasatochi to Advisory and the Aviation Color Code to Yellow based on increased seismicity detected that day by instruments in the area and by field crews on the island the previous few days. Kasatochi lacks dedicated seismometers and is monitored by neighboring networks.

On 7 August, earthquake activity continued; events as large as M 5.6 were detected. Crews reported rockfalls, ground shaking lasting 5-10 minutes, and a strong sulfur smell. Periods of volcanic tremor prompted AVO to raise the Volcano Alert Level to Watch and the Aviation Color Code to Orange. Later that day, an ash plume at an altitude of at least 10.7 km (35,000 ft) a.s.l. was detected on satellite imagery drifting SSW. The Volcano Alert Level was raised to Warning and the Aviation Color Code was raised to Red. Reports from a marine vessel in the area indicated ashfall and tephra up to pebble size, spectacular lightning, and total darkness for a little over 2 hours. Three major explosive eruptions produced ash plumes that rose to an altitude of 13.7 km (45,000 ft) a.s.l.

Ash emissions became continuous on 8 August following the last explosive event; an ash plume drifted for more than 950 km in a counterclockwise spiral at altitudes of about 9.1-13.7 km (30,000-45,000 ft) a.s.l. Seismicity decreased, although remained elevated, and ash emissions became less frequent. During 8-9 August, seismicity decreased to a level undetectable by stations on Great Sitkin, about 40 km W. On 9 August ash plumes were detected on satellite imagery early in the day; clouds prevented views during the rest of the day. The Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Watch and the Aviation Color Code to Orange. The ash plume from the third eruption on 7 August was seen on satellite imagery 1,850 km ESE of the volcano and was elongated NE-SW over 1,200 km.

According to news articles, flights from Alaska to several west coast cities were cancelled on 10 and 11 August. During 10-12 August, AVO reported that seismicity remained low, but detectable by the network on Great Sitkin.
Sources: The Seattle Times Company, US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for Klyuchevskoy
KVERT reported that seismic activity at Kliuchevskoi had slowly increased since June and was slightly above background levels during 1-8 August. Observations of satellite imagery revealed that the size and intensity of a thermal anomaly in the crater increased. On 8 August, the level of Concern Color Code was raised to Yellow.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Mayon
On 10 August, a mild explosion from Mayon produced an ash plume to an altitude of 2.7 km (8,900 ft) a.s.l. and drifted ENE. PHIVOLCS reported that during the previous few weeks seismic activity had increased slightly and incandescence at the crater had intensified. The Alert Level remained at 1. The 7-km Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the SE flank and the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) in all other areas remained in effect.
Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Report for Aira
Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 10 August an eruption plume from Sakura-jima rose to an altitude greater than 2.7 km (9,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW.
Source: Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Anatahan
During 7-8 August, small sulfur dioxide plumes from Anatahan were visible on satellite imagery. On 8 August, seismicity decreased significantly. During 8-9 August, steam plumes with small amounts of ash rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. On 12 August, the Volcanic Alert Level was lowered to Advisory and the Aviation Color Code to Yellow.
Source: Emergency Management Office of the Commonwealth of the Mariana Islands and United States Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program

Report for Batu Tara
Based on a pilot report and observations of satellite imagery, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 6-8 and 10-11 August ash plumes from Batu Tara rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and NW.
Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Chaiten
Based on web camera views, SIGMET reports, observations of satellite imagery, and information from the Puerto Montt Flight Information Region (FIR), the Buenos Aires VAAC reported that during 7-8 August ash plumes from Chaitén rose to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and NE.
Source: Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Chikurachki
Based on observations of satellite imagery, KVERT reported that eruptive activity from Chikurachki continued during 1-8 August. Ash plumes drifted more than 60 km SE, W, and N during 1-3 August. The level of seismicity was unknown because Chikurachki lacks dedicated seismic instruments. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Cleveland
On 6 August, AVO reported that the thermal anomalies noted at Cleveland's summit and on the W, S, and SE flanks had decreased in intensity since first noted on 21 July, indicating that the lava flows slowed or stopped. The Volcanic Alert Level was lowered to Advisory and the Aviation Color Code to Yellow. During 7-10 August, a weak thermal anomaly at the summit was intermittently visible when not obscured by clouds and drifting ash from the eruption of Kasatochi (about 400 km WSW). On 11 August, thermal anomalies on satellite imagery indicated that lava flowed down the flanks. The Volcano Alert Level was raised to Watch and the Aviation Color Code to Orange. On 12 August, an ash plume rose to an altitude of 7.6 km (25,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 100 km SW.
Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for Karymsky
KVERT reported that seismic activity at Karymsky was above background levels during 1-8 August and possibly indicated that explosions produced ash plumes to an altitude of 3.1 km (10,200 ft) a.s.l. Observations of satellite imagery revealed a thermal anomaly in the crater on 2 August; clouds inhibited views on other days. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Based on observations of satellite imagery and information from KEMSD, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 11 August an eruption plume rose to an altitude of 3.4 km (11,000 ft) a.s.l.
Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Kilauea
HVO reported that during 6 and 9-12 August lava flowed SE through a lava tube system from underneath Kilauea's Thanksgiving Eve Breakout (TEB) and rootless shield complex to the Waikupanaha ocean entry. Occasional explosions and surface lava flows were noted near the ocean entry. A small fountain in a lava pond at the top of one of the rootless shields was observed on 10 August. The sulfur dioxide emission rate at Pu'u 'O'o was 1,700 and 2,400 tonnes per day on 8 and 9 August, respectively; the average background rate is about 2,000 tonnes per day.

During the reporting period, Kilauea earthquakes were variously located beneath Halema'uma'u crater, along the Koa'e fault system, SE and W of the caldera, along the S-flank faults, and along the E and SW rift zones. Beneath Halema'uma'u crater, up to 100 small earthquakes per day (background is 20-40) also occurred but were too small to be located more precisely. The vent in Halema'uma'u crater continued to produce a mainly white plume with minor ash content that drifted SW. The plume was occasionally tinged brown. Night-time incandescence was seen at the base of the plume rock-clattering sounds were heard in the vicinity of the crater. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was high at 900 tonnes per day on 7 August. The pre-2008 background rate was 150-200 tonnes per day.
Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Report for Krakatau
According to a news article, eruptions from Anak Krakatau increased in frequency during 10-11 August. On 12 August, monitoring personnel reported that active lava flows and emissions of thick "smoke" continued but that the frequency of earthquakes and eruptions had declined.
Source: Antara News

Report for Okmok
AVO scientists observed the eruption of Okmok during a visit to Umnak Island on 2 and 3 August. They saw significant ashfall that had accumulated in the caldera and on the upper flanks, lahars and lahar deltas that formed in drainages from the SE to the NE flank, and continuous ash jets being emitted from three or more vents in the vicinity of Cone D in the NE sector of the caldera. Elevated seismicity was detected during 6-8 August, and declined on 9 August. According to observations of satellite imagery, steam plumes possibly containing ash rose to altitudes below 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. during 9-10 August. On 11 August, steam plumes rose to altitudes of less than 6.1 km (20,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE. Ash plumes that rose to around a hundred meters above the crater were reported by an observer in Nikolski (80 km SW). These plumes were not detected on satellite imagery due to cloud cover. On 12 August, a pilot reported an ash plume at an altitude of 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. The Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch and the Aviation Color Code remained at Orange.
Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for Piton de la Fournaise
OVPDLF reported that a small seismic crisis beneath the summit of Piton de la Fournaise lasted about 10 minutes on 4 August. The strongest earthquake was a M 1.
Source: Observatoire Volcanologique du Piton de la Fournaise (OVPF)

Report for Rabaul
RVO reported that ash plumes from Rabaul caldera's Tavurvur cone continued to be emitted during 4-10 August. Ashfall was reported in areas NW. Occasionally incandescence at the summit was observed and roaring noises were reported. Incandescent lava fragments were ejected along with some of the more forceful ash emissions. Based on observations of satellite imagery and information from RVO, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 11-12 August, low-level ash plumes rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW.
Sources: Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO), Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Reventador
The IG reported that steam-and-gas from Reventador was emitted during 6-8 August. Incandescence from the crater was observed at night on 8 August.
Source: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)

Report for Semeru
Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 7 August ash plumes from Semeru rose to an altitude of 4.3 km (14,100 ft) a.s.l. and that incandescent material was ejected from the crater. CVGHM indicated that the activity was normal; the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).
Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM), Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Sheveluch
KVERT reported that seismic activity at Shiveluch was slightly above background levels during 1-8 August, and possibly indicated that ash plumes from explosions rose to an altitude of 4.6 km (15,100 ft) a.s.l. on 6 August. Observations of satellite imagery revealed a thermal anomaly on the lava dome during 1-3 August. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Soufriere Hills
MVO reported that seismic levels from Soufrière Hills were relatively low during 1-8 August. Sulfur dioxide emissions (tons per day) were significantly higher than emissions prior to the partial lava-dome collapse on 28 July. Unconfirmed reports indicated the presence of an ash plume on 3 August. A small ash cloud was seen on 7 August.

Further investigation of the 28 July event revealed that the total amount of material that collapsed from the dome was about 200,000-300,000 cubic meters. Satellite radar images indicated that the vent above Gages wall was enlarged by the explosion to about 150 x 60 meters, elongated E-W. Precautionary access restrictions for areas in and around Belham valley were lifted because evidence suggested that the dome had not been destabilized due to the event.

A new Hazard Level System, designed by MVO and Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) in consultation with the Government of Montserrat and community groups, was implemented on 8 August. The system divides the southern two-thirds of the island into six zones, and includes two Maritime Exclusion Zones. The Hazard Level ranges from 1-5 and is set by the National Disaster Preparedness, Response, and Advisory Committee (NDPRAC) with advice from MVO. The Hazard Level restricts access into each of the zones depending on the number assigned and is unrelated to the Alert Level. The current Hazard Level was 3.
Source: Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO)

Report for Suwanosejima
Based on reports from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 7 August an eruption plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l.
Source: Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Tungurahua
The IG reported that during 6-8 August, explosions from Tungurahua were detected by the seismic network. Although clouds mostly prevented visual observations, steam-and-ash plumes were observed; on 6 August, ash plumes rose to an altitude of 5.5 km (18,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W. Ashfall was reported in areas to the SW.
Source: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)