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 3 September-9 September 2014
Name	Location	Eruption Start Date	Report Status
Asosan	Kyushu (Japan)	—	New
Bardarbunga	Iceland	—	New
Barren Island	Andaman Islands (India)	—	New
Kilauea	Hawaiian Islands (USA)	—	New
Kusatsu-Shiranesan	Honshu (Japan)	—	New
Manam	Northeast of New Guinea	2014 Jun 29	New
Rabaul	New Britain (Papua New Guinea)	—	New
Suwanosejima	Ryukyu Islands (Japan)	2004 Oct 23	New
Aira	Kyushu (Japan)	2017 Mar 25	Continuing
Bezymianny	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	2016 Dec 5	Continuing
Fuego	South-Central Guatemala	2002 Jan 4	Continuing
Karymsky	Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)	—	Continuing
Kuchinoerabujima	Ryukyu Islands (Japan)	—	Continuing
Pacaya	South-Central Guatemala	—	Continuing
Poas	Costa Rica	2023 Dec 1	Continuing
Popocatepetl	Mexico	2005 Jan 9	Continuing
Reventador	Ecuador	2008 Jul 27	Continuing
Santa Maria	Southwestern Guatemala	1922 Jun 22	Continuing
Sheveluch	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	1999 Aug 15	Continuing
Shishaldin	Fox Islands (USA)	2023 Jul 12	Continuing
Tungurahua	Ecuador	—	Continuing
Ubinas	Peru	—	Continuing
Zhupanovsky	Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)	—	Continuing

All times are local unless otherwise stated.

Asosan | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Asosan
Kyushu (Japan)

JMA reported that Alert Level 2 at Asosan continued during 1-8 September. A small eruption occurred on 1 September from Nakadake crater, generating an off-white plume that suggested a small amount of ash; the plume rose 1,200 m above the crater. Incandescence from the crater was detected with a camera on 2 September. Volcanic earthquakes (48-92 per day) and tremor (429-500 per day) was detected during 1-4 September.

On 6 September a small eruption occurred from Nakadake crater that generated a plume 600 m above the rim. Elevated SO2 (1,200 tons/day) was detected during a field survey (the previous measurement on 21 August was 1,000 tons/day). Volcano-tectonic earthquakes (55-129 per day) and tremor (401-463 per day) was detected during 5-7 September.

Tokyo VAAC issued advisories based on JMA reports of eruptions on 1 and 6 September, though no volcanic ash was visible in satellite images.

Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Bardarbunga | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Bardarbunga
Iceland

During 3-9 September the Icelandic Met Office reported ongoing lava effusion, high gas emissions, and elevated seismicity from Bárdarbunga’s Holuhraun lava field. On 3 September, the lava flow continued advancing ENE and covered 7.2 km2. Field observations determined that ash production was almost negligible. Radar images provided measurements of a 0.5-1 km wide depression that had formed within the Dyngjujökull glacier (located ~2 km S of the eruption site).

On 4 September there was no decline in effusive activity and the lava field had an aerial extent of 10.8 km2. There were no obvious changes on the Dyngjujökull glacier.

Two new eruptive fissures were observed south of the main eruption site on 5 September. These sites were less effusive and were located ~2 km away from the Dyngjujökull glacier. The eruption also continued from the original fissure and generated a ~460 m high steam plume. During a surveillance flight, the depression within Dyngjujökull glacier appeared to have grown deeper. On 6 September large changes were observed from the overlying glacier of Bárdarbunga (Vatnajökull glacier); a large area subsided that corresponded to deformation of the caldera floor. There were no signs of an eruption from the caldera. Two depressions were noted on the Dyngjujökull glacier, suggesting that small, short sub-glacial eruptions may have occurred.

The fissure eruption continued during 6-7 September and lava effusion was 100-200 m3/s on 7 September. Activity from the S fissures was less than that of the N fissure which had been active since the beginning of the eruption. The advancing lava flow reached the W main branch of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. No explosive activity due to lava and river water interaction was observed, but steam rose from the area.

During 8-9 September activity was no longer detected from the southernmost fissure. Lava continued to advance and interact with the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. The extent of the lava flow reached 19 km2 and gas emissions remained high.

The London VAAC reported no ash plumes associated with the fissure eruptions. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange.

Sources: Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), London Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Barren Island | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Barren Island
Andaman Islands (India)

The Darwin VAAC released an advisory on 9 September based on a Sigmet and noted ash observations from Barren Island at 1428 that day. The low-level plume was not identifiable in satellite images.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Kilauea | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Kilauea
Hawaiian Islands (USA)

During 3-9 September HVO reported that the circulating lava lake occasionally rose and fell in the deep pit within Kilauea's Halema'uma'u Crater, remaining 50-60 m below the Overlook Crater rim. Elevated gas emissions were detected on 2 September, 3,300-6,700 tonnes per day, and persisted through this reporting period. The plume from the vent continued to deposit variable amounts of ash, spatter, and Pele's hair onto nearby areas; smaller particles may have fallen several kilometers away.

During 3-9 September little change was recorded from Pu`u `O`o; glow was visible overnight above several outgassing openings in the crater floor. On 3 September HVO raised the Volcano Alert Level from Watch to Warning due to the advancement of the June 27th lava flow. By that afternoon the NE trending lava flow had reached ~13.2 km from the vent, placing the active flow front 1.3 km from the E boundary of the Wao Kele o Puna Forest Reserve. The lava flow continued to generate smoke and localized fires as it spread through the forest, and as of 9 September had advanced ~800 m.

Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Kusatsu-Shiranesan | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Kusatsu-Shiranesan
Honshu (Japan)

During 29 August-5 September JMA maintained Alert Level 2 for Kusatsu-Shiranesan due to continued unrest. GPS measurements indicated inflation, although thermal anomalies had been absent since July. Volcanic earthquakes continued at a low level (0-5 per day) and tremor has not been detected.

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Manam | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Manam
Northeast of New Guinea

The Darwin VAAC released advisories on 6 September and noted ash seen in satellite images of Manam at 1032 and 1132. The plume reached 2,100 m (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted ~27 km NW.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Rabaul | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Rabaul
New Britain (Papua New Guinea)

During 31 August-5 September, Rabaul caldera’s Tavurvur cone remained quiet and no nighttime incandescence was observed. Variable amounts of white vapor were visible rising from the summit as well as traces of blue vapor. A few short-duration rumbling noises were heard during 30-31 August, and seismicity remained very high and dominated by small, low-frequency earthquakes. However, earthquakes decreased from 80 events per hour to 15 events per hour at 0300 on 31 August. Less than 10 earthquakes were detected during 1-2 September; a slight increase in low-frequency earthquakes was detected during 4-5 September.

Source: Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO)

Suwanosejima | 3 September-9 September 2014 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Suwanosejima
Ryukyu Islands (Japan)

Tokyo VAAC released ash advisories for Suwanosejima during 3-4 and 9 September based on JMA reports. Ash drifted NE and N at 1,800-5,500 m (6,000-18,000 ft) a.s.l. on 3 September. On 4 September, an ash plume at 5,500 m (18,000 ft) a.s.l. was observed. JMA also reported a 2,100 m (7,000 ft) a.s.l. ash plume on 9 September at 2233.

Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Aira | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Aira
Kyushu (Japan)

During 1-9 September JMA maintained Alert Level 3 for Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano. There were 23 explosions recorded from Showa crater from 1 to 4 September; during 5-7 September there were 18 explosions.

During 3-7 September JMA reported ash eruptions, causing the Tokyo VAAC to issue regular advisories; however, ash was not visible in satellite images. At 0437 on 9 September, ash was visible in satellite images and reached 3,300 m (11,000 ft) a.s.l. drifting S. On 2 and 3 September, ballistics reached 1,300-1,800 m above the crater. Nighttime incandescence was detected during 4-5 September from Showa crater. Volcanic earthquakes and tremor were detected during 1-8 September.

Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Bezymianny | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Bezymianny
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT maintained Alert Level Yellow during the week of 5 September for Bezymianny. Weak seismic activity continued, and according to video data, moderate gas and steam activity frequently occurred, although the volcano was obscured by clouds. Satellite data showed a weak thermal anomaly over the volcano during this reporting period.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Fuego | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Fuego
South-Central Guatemala

On 2 September INSIVUMEH seismically detected a lahar flowing through Fuego’s Taniluyá drainage (SW flank). Observations determined a width of 75 m and height of 2.5 m. The flow cut the road between Santa Lucia Cotzulmaguapa and the communities of Morelia, Santa Sofía, and Panimaché I and II. Lahars were also detected within Río Ceniza (SSW) and Santa Teresa (W).

During 3-9 September INSIVUMEH reported that white fumarolic plumes rose 300-600 m above Fuego’s summit. Weak-to-moderate ash explosions occurred each day and generated plumes 500-800 m high; ash plumes drifted up to 15 km away with prevailing winds. Moderate rumbling was heard and shockwaves caused roofs to shake on some houses near the volcano. On 3 and 5-9 September incandescent plumes were observed 75-150 m above the crater. Weak avalanches were channeled into the drainages of Ceniza (SSW), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Santa Teresa, Las Lajas, and Honda during 9 September.

During 3-4 and 6-9 September fine gray ash from explosions fell over the areas of Yepocapa (8 km WNW), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Morelia (10 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Yucales (12 km SW), Porvenir (8 km ENE), and others.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Karymsky | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Karymsky
Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that moderate-to-weak seismic activity continued at Karymsky and maintained Yellow Alert during the week of 5 September. On 3 September satellite data showed an ash plume at 4,000 m (13,100 ft) a.s.l. that extended about 9 km WSW. The volcano was quiet or obscured by clouds on the other days of week.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Kuchinoerabujima | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kuchinoerabujima
Ryukyu Islands (Japan)

During 1-8 September, JMA reported that Alert Level 3 conditions persisted at Kuchinoerabujima, but no eruptive activity was observed. Seismicity increased during 3-5 September; tremor was occasionally detected. Based on webcamera images, white plumes were visible rising 400 m from the crater during 1-5 September and to 200 m during 5-8 September. Tremor was not detected during 5-8 September and JMA noted that poor weather conditions due to a typhoon were affecting the seismic network.

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Pacaya | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Pacaya
South-Central Guatemala

During 3-9 September INSIVUMEH reported that a weak fumarolic plume was frequently visible rising to 50 m above the summit. The plume tended to drift 400-500 m E and SW. On 4 September, B-type earthquakes were detected associated with gas emissions.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Poas | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Poas
Costa Rica

OVSICORI-UNA reported that three consecutive phreatic eruptions occurred within the crater lake of Poás on 27 August, each within 2 minutes of the previous one. One explosion generated a plume up to 200 m above the surface of the lake. Based on seismic energy released, this event was similar to the eruption on 1 June, one of the largest of the year which partially destroyed a gas-measuring station.

OVSICORI-UNA noted that phreatic eruptions from Poás tended to occur impulsively, have short durations (within 5-10 seconds), and frequently lack precursory activity.

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

Popocatepetl | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Popocatepetl
Mexico

During 3-9 September CENAPRED maintained Alert Level Yellow Phase 2 for Popocatepetl. Nighttime incandescence from the crater was visible during this time period. Low-intensity exhalations were observed during 24-hour periods with consecutive daily counts: 15, 1, 5, 17, 30, 12 and 22. On 4 and 5 September, three and four VT earthquakes were detected, respectively, with an average magnitude 1.7. Small pulses of steam and gas drifted WSW during the mornings of 5 and 6 September.

On 7 September, steam and gas emissions were accompanied by 15 minutes of harmonic tremor. At 0315 incandescent tephra was ejected. An ash plume was observed reaching 1 km above the summit and drifting WNW.

Source: Centro Nacional de Prevencion de Desastres (CENAPRED)

Reventador | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Reventador
Ecuador

During 3-9 September IG reported moderate activity including explosions, long-period earthquakes, harmonic tremor, and tremor at Reventador. While cloud cover frequently limited observations, on 5-8 September steam emissions were observed with small quantities of ash. In the morning of 5 September an explosion generated a plume and ejected blocks from the crater that fell ~500 m below the summit on the W flank. A thermal camera detected an explosion on the following day that also included ballistics. Rumbling sounds were heard in the morning of 7 September, and that evening a 1 km plume was observed. The following morning a vapor plume persisted from the summit, and in the afternoon it contained a small amount of ash.

The MODIS sensor onboard the Terra satellite detected thermal anomalies from the region of Reventador’s summit during 4-6 September.

Sources: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN), Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) Thermal Alerts Team

Santa Maria | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Santa Maria
Southwestern Guatemala

During 3-9 September INSIVUMEH reported white fumarolic plumes rising 200-300 m above Santa Maria’s active cone, Santiaguito. The active lava flow on the E flank continued to generate ash plumes and incandescence. On 4 September fine ash dispersed W over the area of Palajunoj (18 km SSW). On 6 September INSIVUMEH observed the lava flow advancing within the Nima 1 drainage.

INSIVUMEH reported that a strong lahar was detected by the seismic network and observed within Río Nima 1 on 7 September. Fines and blocks (up to 40 m) were mobilized, and moderate vibrations could be felt from the ground as it passed the observatory. Sulfur odors were also noticed.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Sheveluch | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Sheveluch
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that the explosive and effusive eruption of Shiveluch continued and maintained Alert Level Orange during the week of 5 September. Activity was dominated by lava dome growth on the SE flank, moderate ash explosions, fumarolic activity, and hot avalanches. Satellite data showed a persistent thermal anomaly from the dome region.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Shishaldin | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Shishaldin
Fox Islands (USA)

AVO reported that low-level seismicity and eruptive activity continued from Shishaldin during 3-7 September. When weather conditions were favorable, satellite images detected elevated surface temperatures. Observations were restricted on 8-9 September due to cloudy conditions.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Tungurahua | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Tungurahua
Ecuador

During 3-9 September IG reported moderate-to-high activity from Tungurahua. Explosions were observed most days during clear conditions, but also heard during episodes of rumbling during 4-6 September.

On 3 September gray and black ashfall was reported in the areas of Manzano (8 km SW), Choglontus (13 km WSW), Tisaleo (29 km NW), Quero Alto (20 km NW), and Quinchicoto. In the afternoon a pyroclastic flow descended 500 m from the crater and explosions were detected during 1700-1900. Ashfall was also noted on 5 September in the towns of Manzano and Palitahua (6 km SSW). At 1210 an ash plume reached 1,500 m above the crater and drifted both W and E.

In the morning of 6 September an incandescent plume was observed rising from the summit. Ash drifted W and later SW, and 0.5 mm of black ash accumulated in the areas of Penipe (15 km SW), Puela (8 km SW), Pillate (8 km W), Galán (WNW), and to the S of Quero (20 km NW). The following day ashfall was reported in Palitagua (SW), Manzano, and Bilbao (8 km W).

The MODIS sensor onboard the Aqua satellite detected a thermal anomaly from the region of Tungurahua’s summit on 7 September.

On 8 September cloudy conditions persisted, but in the afternoon an ash plume was visible drifting NW; ashfall was reported from Cevallos (23 km NW), Quero, Mocha (25 km W), Pillate, and Tisaleo. Black ashfall was reported in the area of Pillate on the following day.

Sources: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN), Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) Thermal Alerts Team

Ubinas | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Ubinas
Peru

During 3-9 September IGP reported that the eruption of Ubinas was continuing. During 3-4 and 9 September, steam plumes from fumaroles occasionally rose from the summit. Seismicity was generally low but dominated by tremor. Two exhalations of ash were observed on 5 September, the first at 0858 generated an ash plume up to 1,000 m above the summit which dispersed S. The second plume occurred at 1327 and dispersed ash 500 m above the summit that dispersed N.

A total of five explosions were detected on 8 September, the strongest occurred at 0850 and produced a 1,200 m plume; the second explosion expelled ash to heights between 1,300 and 1,900 m; ashfall was noted in areas S.

The Buenos Aires VAAC reported Aviation Color Code Orange on 8 and 9 September when visible images revealed a narrow plume of steam and ash drifting SE. By 0400 on 9 September, the emissions contained water vapor, gas, and light ash, and reached an altitude of 7,300 m (24,000 ft) a.s.l..

Sources: Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP), Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Zhupanovsky | 3 September-9 September 2014 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Zhupanovsky
Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)

According to KVERT, the moderate explosive eruption of Zhupanovsky continued and Alert Level Orange was maintained through 8 September. On 1 September visual data detected an ash plume to an altitude of 3,500 m (11,500 ft) a.s.l. drifting NW of the volcano. Satellite data showed ash plumes at 3,500-4,000 m (11,500-13,100 ft) a.s.l. that extended about 85 km in various directions on 28 and 30 August and 1-4 September. Persistent thermal anomalies were detected from the summit area based on satellite images.

KVERT reported three ash plumes drifting SW on 7 September. The plumes were 10 km, 38 km, and 72 km long at 2,500-3,000 m (8,200-9,840 ft) a.s.l. On 8 September, satellite images revealed an ash plume extending 52 km SW from the volcano.

According to the Tokyo VAAC, ash plumes and possible ash plumes were detected by satellite images during 29 August-9 September with the exception of 5 and 6 September. Plume heights were 2,700-11,600 m (9,000-38,000 ft) a.s.l..

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

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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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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 Asosan
JMA reported that Alert Level 2 at Asosan continued during 1-8 September. A small eruption occurred on 1 September from Nakadake crater, generating an off-white plume that suggested a small amount of ash; the plume rose 1,200 m above the crater. Incandescence from the crater was detected with a camera on 2 September. Volcanic earthquakes (48-92 per day) and tremor (429-500 per day) was detected during 1-4 September.

On 6 September a small eruption occurred from Nakadake crater that generated a plume 600 m above the rim. Elevated SO2 (1,200 tons/day) was detected during a field survey (the previous measurement on 21 August was 1,000 tons/day). Volcano-tectonic earthquakes (55-129 per day) and tremor (401-463 per day) was detected during 5-7 September.

Tokyo VAAC issued advisories based on JMA reports of eruptions on 1 and 6 September, though no volcanic ash was visible in satellite images.
Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Bardarbunga
During 3-9 September the Icelandic Met Office reported ongoing lava effusion, high gas emissions, and elevated seismicity from Bárdarbunga’s Holuhraun lava field. On 3 September, the lava flow continued advancing ENE and covered 7.2 km2. Field observations determined that ash production was almost negligible. Radar images provided measurements of a 0.5-1 km wide depression that had formed within the Dyngjujökull glacier (located ~2 km S of the eruption site).

On 4 September there was no decline in effusive activity and the lava field had an aerial extent of 10.8 km2. There were no obvious changes on the Dyngjujökull glacier.

Two new eruptive fissures were observed south of the main eruption site on 5 September. These sites were less effusive and were located ~2 km away from the Dyngjujökull glacier. The eruption also continued from the original fissure and generated a ~460 m high steam plume. During a surveillance flight, the depression within Dyngjujökull glacier appeared to have grown deeper. On 6 September large changes were observed from the overlying glacier of Bárdarbunga (Vatnajökull glacier); a large area subsided that corresponded to deformation of the caldera floor. There were no signs of an eruption from the caldera. Two depressions were noted on the Dyngjujökull glacier, suggesting that small, short sub-glacial eruptions may have occurred.

The fissure eruption continued during 6-7 September and lava effusion was 100-200 m3/s on 7 September. Activity from the S fissures was less than that of the N fissure which had been active since the beginning of the eruption. The advancing lava flow reached the W main branch of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. No explosive activity due to lava and river water interaction was observed, but steam rose from the area.

During 8-9 September activity was no longer detected from the southernmost fissure. Lava continued to advance and interact with the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. The extent of the lava flow reached 19 km2 and gas emissions remained high.

The London VAAC reported no ash plumes associated with the fissure eruptions. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange.
Sources: Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO), London Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Barren Island
The Darwin VAAC released an advisory on 9 September based on a Sigmet and noted ash observations from Barren Island at 1428 that day. The low-level plume was not identifiable in satellite images.
Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Kilauea
During 3-9 September HVO reported that the circulating lava lake occasionally rose and fell in the deep pit within Kilauea's Halema'uma'u Crater, remaining 50-60 m below the Overlook Crater rim. Elevated gas emissions were detected on 2 September, 3,300-6,700 tonnes per day, and persisted through this reporting period. The plume from the vent continued to deposit variable amounts of ash, spatter, and Pele's hair onto nearby areas; smaller particles may have fallen several kilometers away.

During 3-9 September little change was recorded from Pu`u `O`o; glow was visible overnight above several outgassing openings in the crater floor. On 3 September HVO raised the Volcano Alert Level from Watch to Warning due to the advancement of the June 27th lava flow. By that afternoon the NE trending lava flow had reached ~13.2 km from the vent, placing the active flow front 1.3 km from the E boundary of the Wao Kele o Puna Forest Reserve. The lava flow continued to generate smoke and localized fires as it spread through the forest, and as of 9 September had advanced ~800 m.
Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Report for Kusatsu-Shiranesan
During 29 August-5 September JMA maintained Alert Level 2 for Kusatsu-Shiranesan due to continued unrest. GPS measurements indicated inflation, although thermal anomalies had been absent since July. Volcanic earthquakes continued at a low level (0-5 per day) and tremor has not been detected.
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Report for Manam
The Darwin VAAC released advisories on 6 September and noted ash seen in satellite images of Manam at 1032 and 1132. The plume reached 2,100 m (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted ~27 km NW.
Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Rabaul
During 31 August-5 September, Rabaul caldera’s Tavurvur cone remained quiet and no nighttime incandescence was observed. Variable amounts of white vapor were visible rising from the summit as well as traces of blue vapor. A few short-duration rumbling noises were heard during 30-31 August, and seismicity remained very high and dominated by small, low-frequency earthquakes. However, earthquakes decreased from 80 events per hour to 15 events per hour at 0300 on 31 August. Less than 10 earthquakes were detected during 1-2 September; a slight increase in low-frequency earthquakes was detected during 4-5 September.
Source: Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO)

Report for Suwanosejima
Tokyo VAAC released ash advisories for Suwanosejima during 3-4 and 9 September based on JMA reports. Ash drifted NE and N at 1,800-5,500 m (6,000-18,000 ft) a.s.l. on 3 September. On 4 September, an ash plume at 5,500 m (18,000 ft) a.s.l. was observed. JMA also reported a 2,100 m (7,000 ft) a.s.l. ash plume on 9 September at 2233.
Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Aira
During 1-9 September JMA maintained Alert Level 3 for Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano. There were 23 explosions recorded from Showa crater from 1 to 4 September; during 5-7 September there were 18 explosions.

During 3-7 September JMA reported ash eruptions, causing the Tokyo VAAC to issue regular advisories; however, ash was not visible in satellite images. At 0437 on 9 September, ash was visible in satellite images and reached 3,300 m (11,000 ft) a.s.l. drifting S. On 2 and 3 September, ballistics reached 1,300-1,800 m above the crater. Nighttime incandescence was detected during 4-5 September from Showa crater. Volcanic earthquakes and tremor were detected during 1-8 September.
Sources: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Bezymianny
KVERT maintained Alert Level Yellow during the week of 5 September for Bezymianny. Weak seismic activity continued, and according to video data, moderate gas and steam activity frequently occurred, although the volcano was obscured by clouds. Satellite data showed a weak thermal anomaly over the volcano during this reporting period.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Fuego
On 2 September INSIVUMEH seismically detected a lahar flowing through Fuego’s Taniluyá drainage (SW flank). Observations determined a width of 75 m and height of 2.5 m. The flow cut the road between Santa Lucia Cotzulmaguapa and the communities of Morelia, Santa Sofía, and Panimaché I and II. Lahars were also detected within Río Ceniza (SSW) and Santa Teresa (W).

During 3-9 September INSIVUMEH reported that white fumarolic plumes rose 300-600 m above Fuego’s summit. Weak-to-moderate ash explosions occurred each day and generated plumes 500-800 m high; ash plumes drifted up to 15 km away with prevailing winds. Moderate rumbling was heard and shockwaves caused roofs to shake on some houses near the volcano. On 3 and 5-9 September incandescent plumes were observed 75-150 m above the crater. Weak avalanches were channeled into the drainages of Ceniza (SSW), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Santa Teresa, Las Lajas, and Honda during 9 September.

During 3-4 and 6-9 September fine gray ash from explosions fell over the areas of Yepocapa (8 km WNW), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Morelia (10 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Yucales (12 km SW), Porvenir (8 km ENE), and others.
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for Karymsky
KVERT reported that moderate-to-weak seismic activity continued at Karymsky and maintained Yellow Alert during the week of 5 September. On 3 September satellite data showed an ash plume at 4,000 m (13,100 ft) a.s.l. that extended about 9 km WSW. The volcano was quiet or obscured by clouds on the other days of week.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Kuchinoerabujima
During 1-8 September, JMA reported that Alert Level 3 conditions persisted at Kuchinoerabujima, but no eruptive activity was observed. Seismicity increased during 3-5 September; tremor was occasionally detected. Based on webcamera images, white plumes were visible rising 400 m from the crater during 1-5 September and to 200 m during 5-8 September. Tremor was not detected during 5-8 September and JMA noted that poor weather conditions due to a typhoon were affecting the seismic network.
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Report for Pacaya
During 3-9 September INSIVUMEH reported that a weak fumarolic plume was frequently visible rising to 50 m above the summit. The plume tended to drift 400-500 m E and SW. On 4 September, B-type earthquakes were detected associated with gas emissions.
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for Poas
OVSICORI-UNA reported that three consecutive phreatic eruptions occurred within the crater lake of Poás on 27 August, each within 2 minutes of the previous one. One explosion generated a plume up to 200 m above the surface of the lake. Based on seismic energy released, this event was similar to the eruption on 1 June, one of the largest of the year which partially destroyed a gas-measuring station.

OVSICORI-UNA noted that phreatic eruptions from Poás tended to occur impulsively, have short durations (within 5-10 seconds), and frequently lack precursory activity.
Source: Observatorio Vulcanologico y Sismologico de Costa Rica-Universidad Nacional (OVSICORI-UNA)

Report for Popocatepetl
During 3-9 September CENAPRED maintained Alert Level Yellow Phase 2 for Popocatepetl. Nighttime incandescence from the crater was visible during this time period. Low-intensity exhalations were observed during 24-hour periods with consecutive daily counts: 15, 1, 5, 17, 30, 12 and 22. On 4 and 5 September, three and four VT earthquakes were detected, respectively, with an average magnitude 1.7. Small pulses of steam and gas drifted WSW during the mornings of 5 and 6 September.

On 7 September, steam and gas emissions were accompanied by 15 minutes of harmonic tremor. At 0315 incandescent tephra was ejected. An ash plume was observed reaching 1 km above the summit and drifting WNW.
Source: Centro Nacional de Prevencion de Desastres (CENAPRED)

Report for Reventador
During 3-9 September IG reported moderate activity including explosions, long-period earthquakes, harmonic tremor, and tremor at Reventador. While cloud cover frequently limited observations, on 5-8 September steam emissions were observed with small quantities of ash. In the morning of 5 September an explosion generated a plume and ejected blocks from the crater that fell ~500 m below the summit on the W flank. A thermal camera detected an explosion on the following day that also included ballistics. Rumbling sounds were heard in the morning of 7 September, and that evening a 1 km plume was observed. The following morning a vapor plume persisted from the summit, and in the afternoon it contained a small amount of ash.

The MODIS sensor onboard the Terra satellite detected thermal anomalies from the region of Reventador’s summit during 4-6 September.
Sources: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN), Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) Thermal Alerts Team

Report for Santa Maria
During 3-9 September INSIVUMEH reported white fumarolic plumes rising 200-300 m above Santa Maria’s active cone, Santiaguito. The active lava flow on the E flank continued to generate ash plumes and incandescence. On 4 September fine ash dispersed W over the area of Palajunoj (18 km SSW). On 6 September INSIVUMEH observed the lava flow advancing within the Nima 1 drainage.

INSIVUMEH reported that a strong lahar was detected by the seismic network and observed within Río Nima 1 on 7 September. Fines and blocks (up to 40 m) were mobilized, and moderate vibrations could be felt from the ground as it passed the observatory. Sulfur odors were also noticed.
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for Sheveluch
KVERT reported that the explosive and effusive eruption of Shiveluch continued and maintained Alert Level Orange during the week of 5 September. Activity was dominated by lava dome growth on the SE flank, moderate ash explosions, fumarolic activity, and hot avalanches. Satellite data showed a persistent thermal anomaly from the dome region.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Shishaldin
AVO reported that low-level seismicity and eruptive activity continued from Shishaldin during 3-7 September. When weather conditions were favorable, satellite images detected elevated surface temperatures. Observations were restricted on 8-9 September due to cloudy conditions.
Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for Tungurahua
During 3-9 September IG reported moderate-to-high activity from Tungurahua. Explosions were observed most days during clear conditions, but also heard during episodes of rumbling during 4-6 September.

On 3 September gray and black ashfall was reported in the areas of Manzano (8 km SW), Choglontus (13 km WSW), Tisaleo (29 km NW), Quero Alto (20 km NW), and Quinchicoto. In the afternoon a pyroclastic flow descended 500 m from the crater and explosions were detected during 1700-1900. Ashfall was also noted on 5 September in the towns of Manzano and Palitahua (6 km SSW). At 1210 an ash plume reached 1,500 m above the crater and drifted both W and E.

In the morning of 6 September an incandescent plume was observed rising from the summit. Ash drifted W and later SW, and 0.5 mm of black ash accumulated in the areas of Penipe (15 km SW), Puela (8 km SW), Pillate (8 km W), Galán (WNW), and to the S of Quero (20 km NW). The following day ashfall was reported in Palitagua (SW), Manzano, and Bilbao (8 km W).

The MODIS sensor onboard the Aqua satellite detected a thermal anomaly from the region of Tungurahua’s summit on 7 September.

On 8 September cloudy conditions persisted, but in the afternoon an ash plume was visible drifting NW; ashfall was reported from Cevallos (23 km NW), Quero, Mocha (25 km W), Pillate, and Tisaleo. Black ashfall was reported in the area of Pillate on the following day.
Sources: Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN), Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) Thermal Alerts Team

Report for Ubinas
During 3-9 September IGP reported that the eruption of Ubinas was continuing. During 3-4 and 9 September, steam plumes from fumaroles occasionally rose from the summit. Seismicity was generally low but dominated by tremor. Two exhalations of ash were observed on 5 September, the first at 0858 generated an ash plume up to 1,000 m above the summit which dispersed S. The second plume occurred at 1327 and dispersed ash 500 m above the summit that dispersed N.

A total of five explosions were detected on 8 September, the strongest occurred at 0850 and produced a 1,200 m plume; the second explosion expelled ash to heights between 1,300 and 1,900 m; ashfall was noted in areas S.

The Buenos Aires VAAC reported Aviation Color Code Orange on 8 and 9 September when visible images revealed a narrow plume of steam and ash drifting SE. By 0400 on 9 September, the emissions contained water vapor, gas, and light ash, and reached an altitude of 7,300 m (24,000 ft) a.s.l..
Sources: Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP), Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Zhupanovsky
According to KVERT, the moderate explosive eruption of Zhupanovsky continued and Alert Level Orange was maintained through 8 September. On 1 September visual data detected an ash plume to an altitude of 3,500 m (11,500 ft) a.s.l. drifting NW of the volcano. Satellite data showed ash plumes at 3,500-4,000 m (11,500-13,100 ft) a.s.l. that extended about 85 km in various directions on 28 and 30 August and 1-4 September. Persistent thermal anomalies were detected from the summit area based on satellite images.

KVERT reported three ash plumes drifting SW on 7 September. The plumes were 10 km, 38 km, and 72 km long at 2,500-3,000 m (8,200-9,840 ft) a.s.l. On 8 September, satellite images revealed an ash plume extending 52 km SW from the volcano.

According to the Tokyo VAAC, ash plumes and possible ash plumes were detected by satellite images during 29 August-9 September with the exception of 5 and 6 September. Plume heights were 2,700-11,600 m (9,000-38,000 ft) a.s.l..
Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)