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 10 February-16 February 2021
Name	Location	Eruption Start Date	Report Status
Etna	Sicily (Italy)	2022 Nov 27	New
Merapi	Central Java	2020 Dec 31	New
Raung	Eastern Java	—	New
Sarychev Peak	Matua Island (Russia)	—	New
Aira	Kyushu (Japan)	2017 Mar 25	Continuing
Dukono	Halmahera	1933 Aug 13	Continuing
Ebeko	Paramushir Island (Russia)	2022 Jun 11	Continuing
Fuego	South-Central Guatemala	2002 Jan 4	Continuing
Kanlaon	Philippines	—	Continuing
Karymsky	Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)	—	Continuing
Kavachi	Solomon Islands	2021 Oct 2	Continuing
Kilauea	Hawaiian Islands (USA)	—	Continuing
Klyuchevskoy	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	2023 Jun 22	Continuing
Lewotolok	Lembata Island	2020 Nov 27	Continuing
Pacaya	South-Central Guatemala	—	Continuing
San Cristobal	Sierra de los Marrabios	—	Continuing
San Miguel	Eastern El Salvador	—	Continuing
Sheveluch	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	1999 Aug 15	Continuing
Sinabung	Northwestern Sumatra	—	Continuing
Soufriere St. Vincent	St. Vincent	—	Continuing
Suwanosejima	Ryukyu Islands (Japan)	2004 Oct 23	Continuing
Taal	Luzon (Philippines)	—	Continuing
Villarrica	Central Chile	2014 Dec 2 ± 7 days	Continuing

All times are local unless otherwise stated.

Etna | 10 February-16 February 2021 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Etna
Sicily (Italy)

INGV reported that Strombolian activity from all four of Etna’s summit craters, the Southeast Crater (SEC), Northeast Crater (NEC), Bocca Nuova (BN), and Voragine (VOR), was visible during 8-14 February. The frequency and intensity of explosions at SEC were variable; almost continuous strong explosions originated from two vents in the E part of the top of the cone. Tephra accumulated near the top of the cone and rolled several tens of meters down the flanks. Minor ash emissions rapidly dispersed. Less-intense Strombolian activity occurred at the S vent (also called the saddle vent). Intra-crater Strombolian activity at NEC sometimes produced nighttime crater incandescence. The activity at BN sometimes ejected coarse material beyond the crater rim, and rare emissions that had diffuse ash content. The the VOR Strombolian explosions ejected material that sometimes rose above the crater rim and generated diffuse ash emissions.

During the morning of 15 February explosive activity at SEC gradually intensified. Activity originated from the E vents but sometimes intense explosions occurred at the saddle vent. A significant increase in tremor amplitude began at 1700. Tremor amplitude waned at 2100, the same time that explosive activity decreased. At 1700 on 16 February lava began advancing down the E flank of SEC. Part of the cone collapsed at 1705 and generated a pyroclastic flow that traveled 1.5 km along the W wall of the Valle de Bove. An ash plume rapidly dispersed to the S. Explosive activity at SEC increased and lava fountaining began at 1710. Ash clouds drifted S. Lava flows advanced into the Valle de Bove, reaching an elevation of 2,000 m by 1759 at the latest. Lapilli, 1 cm in diameter, was reported in Nicolosi (16 km S) and Mascalucia (19 km S), and ash and lapilli fell in Catania (29 km SSE). Ashfall was also reported in Syracuse, 60-80 km SSE. Another lava flow advanced N into the Valle del Leone. Lava fountains were about 500 m tall, possibly as tall as 600 m. Tremor amplitude began to decrease at 1750 and lava fountains ceased around 1800. Lava effusion from SEC gradually diminished; the flow in the Valle de Bove was a few kilometers long and smaller flows that had traveled N and S reached an elevation of 2,900. Strombolian activity persisted at SEC overnight during 16-17 February and ceased at 0715 on 17 February. Explosions at VOR were sporadic.

Source: Sezione di Catania - Osservatorio Etneo (INGV)

Merapi | 10 February-16 February 2021 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Merapi
Central Java

BPPTKG reported that the 2021 lava dome continued to grow just below Merapi’s SW rim during 5-11 February. The lava-dome volume was an estimated 295,000 cubic meters on 11 February, with a growth rate of about 48,900 cubic meters per day. Incandescent avalanches of material were occasionally visible; they traveled 700 m SW in the upper parts of the Krasak and Boyong drainages during 9-10 February. Weather conditions prevented visual observations of the lava dome in the summit crater. Seismicity was higher than the previous week. Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) data showed no notable deformation. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public were warned to stay 5 km away from the summit.

Sources: Balai Penyelidikan dan Pengembangan Teknologi Kebencanaan Geologi (BPPTKG), Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Raung | 10 February-16 February 2021 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Raung
Eastern Java

PVMBG reported that daily gray ash plumes rose as high as 2.5 km above Raung’s summit during 10-16 February. Ash plumes were sometimes dense and drifted N, NE, E, and S. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Sarychev Peak | 10 February-16 February 2021 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Sarychev Peak
Matua Island (Russia)

KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sarychev Peak was identified in satellite images during 5-12 February. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale).

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Aira | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Aira
Kyushu (Japan)

JMA reported that during 8-15 February incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was often visible nightly. One explosion and five eruptive events generated eruption plumes that rose 1.4-1.5 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 800-1,100 km away from the crater. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was high, at 2,500 tons per day on 9 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Dukono | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Dukono
Halmahera

Based on satellite and wind model data and information from PVMBG, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 12-13 February ash plumes from Dukono rose to 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

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

Ebeko | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Ebeko
Paramushir Island (Russia)

Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 29 January and 1-2 February that sent ash plumes to 3.6 km (11,800 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Fuego | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Fuego
South-Central Guatemala

INSIVUMEH reported that continuous avalanches of material at Fuego during 9-10 February descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda drainages. There were 8-12 explosions per hour, generating ash plumes that rose as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim that drifted 15-20 km W and SE. Ashfall was reported in areas downwind including Santa Sofía, Panimache, Morelia, and Yucales, and shockwaves were audible up to 15 km away. The number of explosions increased to 3-6 per hour during 11-12 February. Ash-and-gas plumes rose to 1.1 km and drifted W and SW, causing ashfall in Sangre de Cristo, Palo Verde, and Yepocapa. Shock waves were felt by nearby residents. Avalanches of material descended the flanks, reaching vegetated areas.

During 12-13 February incandescent material was ejected 200 m above the summit and shock waved vibrated local structures. A lava flow had traveled 1 km down the Ceniza drainage, spalling blocks from the flow front that reached vegetated areas. By 14 February the lava flow had lengthened to 1.5 km and a lava flow in the Seca drainage traveled 500 m. During 1020-1023 a series of pyroclastic flows traveled several hundred meters down the Ceniza. Ash plumes from explosions rose 850 m and drifted NE, E, and SE, and caused ashfall in Alotenango, El Porvenir, and Finca La Reunion, in the department of Sacatépequez. During 14-15 February explosions ejected incandescent material 100 m above the summit and rattled nearby structures. Ash plumes rose as high as 450 m and drifted short distances E. Lava flows remained active; they were 800 and 200 m long in the Ceniza and Seca drainages, respectively. Block avalanches from the lava-flow fronts reached vegetated areas.

The lava effusion rate had steadily decreased during the late morning of 15 February. During the afternoon explosions, occurring at a rate of 14-30 per hour, produced ash plumes that rose 850-1,050 m above the summit and drifted as far as 50 km E, NE, and N. Ash fell in Porvenir and Alotenango. Activity continued to decrease through the day, characterized by a reduction in the explosion rate, less intense summit incandescence, and low RSAM values. INSIVUMEH declared an end to the effusive eruption phase. Explosions (12-14 per hour) generated ash plumes that rose over 1 km and drifted 130 km N, NE, and E.

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

Kanlaon | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kanlaon
Philippines

PHIVOLCS reported slightly increased seismic activity and volcanic gas flux at Kanlaon. The seismic network recorded 28 volcanic earthquakes during 11-13 February with local magnitudes between 0.7 and 2.2. They were located at shallow depths around 10 km across the N to E portions of the edifice. The sulfur dioxide emission rate on 13 February was 1,130 tonnes per day, the highest value recorded this year; sulfur dioxide emissions had been higher than background levels of 300 tonnes/day since June 2020. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS and tilt measurements indicated slight inflation of the lower and middle flanks since June 2020. Increased seismic activity continued through 16 February; from 0800 on 14 February to 0800 on 16 February there were a total of 59 earthquakes. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5) and PHIVOLCS reminded the public to remain outside of the 4-km-radius Permanent Danger Zone.

Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Karymsky | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Karymsky
Eastern Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that activity at Karymsky had decreased; strong explosions were last observed on 2 January and a thermal anomaly was last detected in satellite images on 5 February. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) on 11 February and then lowered to Green, the lowest level, on 16 February. Gas-and-steam emissions persisted.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Kavachi | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kavachi
Solomon Islands

Satellite data showed discolored water around and to the SW of Kavachi on 25 January. Discolored water was not obviously visible in 20 January images; weather clouds prevented views of the area in images through 14 February.

Sources: Sentinel Hub, Culture Volcan

Kilauea | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kilauea
Hawaiian Islands (USA)

HVO reported that a vent on the inner NW wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued to supply the lava lake during 10-16 February. The western part of the lake deepened from 215 m to around 217 m and the lake surface actively overturned at “plate” boundaries. The W end of the lava lake was perched by 3 m above the distal margin of recent overflows. A series of surficial cracks separated the W part of the lake from the stagnant E part. Lava spillovers just N of the inlet of lava sporadically flowed around the NW margin of the perched lake. Gas jetting at two locations above the W vents and two bursts of spatter were observed during 9-10 February. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was 1,600 and 1,100 tons/day on 10 and 12 February, respectively. During 15-16 February a few lava flows were visible along the N and E margins of the E part of the lake.

Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Klyuchevskoy | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Klyuchevskoy
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that activity at Klyuchevskoy notably decreased, with the eruption likely ending on 8 February. The temperature of the thermal anomaly identified in satellite images abruptly dropped on 7 February, and the magnitude of volcanic tremor decreased during 7-8 February and continued to decline through 12 February. Strombolian activity was not visible at night during 11-12 February. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) on 12 February.

The Tokyo VAAC reported that re-suspended ash was identified in satellite images during 12-13 February. On 15 February an ash plume rose to 5.2 km (17,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE.

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

Lewotolok | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Lewotolok
Lembata Island

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolo continued during 9-15 February. Gray-and-white ash plumes rose 400-1,000 m above the summit and drifted E and SE. Strombolian explosions ejected material 500 m SE on 13 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 4 km away from the summer crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Pacaya | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Pacaya
South-Central Guatemala

INSIVUMEH reported that a during 9-10 February Strombolian explosions at Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater ejected material 200-300 high and away from the crater. Ash clouds occasionally rose as high as 650 m and drifted 10 km W and SW. A 1.3-km-long lava flow was active on the S flank; block avalanches from the front of the lava flow descended 200 m. Activity increased around 1600 on 10 February. Strombolian explosions ejected incandescent material 500 m above the crater rim and produced gas-and-ash plumes that drifted W. Ashfall was reported in the villages of El Patrocinio (about 5 km W) and El Rodeo (4 km WSW). During 11-12 February material was ejected 300-500 m above the crater. Ash plumes rose 950 m and drifted N, causing ashfall in San Francisco de Sales (5 km N), San Jose Calderas, and Concepción el Cedro (9 km NNW).

Seismic data recorded pulses of increased activity during the morning of 12 February and again around 1400 on 13 February. Explosions ejected material 300-500 m above the crater. Ash-and-gas plumes rose almost 500 m and drifted 6 km W, N, and NE, causing ashfall in Santa Elena Barillas (6 km ENE), Mesillas Bajas (5 km NE), and Mesillas Altas. Another pulse of activity was recorded at 1145 on 14 February. Material was ejected as high as 250 m. Ash plumes rose less than 400 m and drifted 5 km E. A 650-m-long lava flow in the SSW flank was active on 15 February. Explosions continued to ejected material as high as 250 m above the vent.

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

San Cristobal | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

San Cristobal
Sierra de los Marrabios

The Washington VAAC reported that on 14 February an ash cloud from San Cristóbal rose to 2.3 km (7,500 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW based on satellite data, webcam images, and weather models. A thermal anomaly was also identified.

Source: Washington Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

San Miguel | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

San Miguel
Eastern El Salvador

SNET stated that San Miguel’s seismic network recorded long-lasting and continuous periods of volcanic tremor that began on 7 February and continued through 14 February. Discrete earthquakes from minor rock fracturing were also detected. RSAM values fluctuated between 25 and 75 units, below normal values around 150 units.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Estudios Territoriales (SNET)

Sheveluch | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Sheveluch
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 5-12 February. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Sinabung | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Sinabung
Northwestern Sumatra

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Sinabung continued during 10-16 February, though weather conditions sometimes prevented visual confirmation. Dense white plumes rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. During 12-14 February pyroclastic flows traveled as far as 2 km down the E and SE flanks. Avalanches descended 500-1,500 m down the E, SE, and S flanks. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 3 km and extensions to 5 km in the SE sector and 4 km in the NE sector.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Soufriere St. Vincent | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Soufriere St. Vincent
St. Vincent

University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) and National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) reported that the lava dome in Soufrière St. Vincent’s main crater continued to grow during 10-16 February. Gas-and-steam continued to rise from the top of the dome as well as along the contact of the old and new domes. The dome also grew taller and spread laterally to the NW and SE. By 12 February the it was 90 m tall, 618 m long, 232 m wide, and had an estimated volume of 6.83 million cubic meters. Four additional seismometers were installed, strengthening the seismic network. NEMO reminded the public to avoid the volcano and that descending into the crater remained extremely dangerous. The Alert Level remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).

Sources: University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC), National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Suwanosejima | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Suwanosejima
Ryukyu Islands (Japan)

JMA reported that incandescence at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was occasionally visible at night during 5-12 February. Intermittent eruptive events produced ash plumes that rose as high as 1.2 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 500 m away from the crater. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale).

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Taal | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Taal
Luzon (Philippines)

PHIVOLCS reported that geochemical data collected from Taal’s Main Crater lake indicated a continuous acidification of the water from pH 2.79 to 1.59 between January 2020 and February 2021. A maximum temperature of 77.1 degrees Celsius was unseasonably high, and carbon dioxide/hydrogen sulfide gas flux ratios were consistent with shallow magma degassing. Tilt data indicated minor deflation around Main Crater, though minor inflation was consistently recorded across the Taal region as indicated by analysis of GPS data, InSAR, and microgravity changes.

A total of 68 relatively weak tremor signals were detected during 13-15 February; 50 of those were recorded during 0500-1500 on 15 February. The events on 15 February ranged in duration from two to five minutes and occurred at depths less than 1 km. The depth and location of the earthquakes suggested increased hydrothermal activity beneath Taal Volcano Island. Increased seismic activity continued through 16 February; from 0800 on 15 February to 0800 on 16 February there were a total of 98 earthquakes. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5) and PHIVOLCS strongly recommended no entry onto the island, and the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure (along the walking trail) was strictly prohibited.

Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Villarrica | 10 February-16 February 2021 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Villarrica
Central Chile

SERNAGEOMIN reported that dense gas emissions were observed in Villarrica’s webcam images rising 700 m above the summit on 10 February. Long-period (LP) events were recorded by the seismic network at 1146 and 1156 on 16 February. Ash emissions associated with the earthquakes rose 160 m and drifted NW and 280 m and drifted NE, respectively. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, the second lowest level on a four-color scale. ONEMI maintained an Alert Level Yellow (the middle level on a three-color scale) for the municipalities of Villarrica, Pucón (16 km N), Curarrehue, and the commune of Panguipulli, and the exclusion zone for the public of 500 m around the crater.

Sources: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN), Oficina Nacional de Emergencia-Ministerio del Interior (ONEMI)

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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.

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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 Etna
INGV reported that Strombolian activity from all four of Etna’s summit craters, the Southeast Crater (SEC), Northeast Crater (NEC), Bocca Nuova (BN), and Voragine (VOR), was visible during 8-14 February. The frequency and intensity of explosions at SEC were variable; almost continuous strong explosions originated from two vents in the E part of the top of the cone. Tephra accumulated near the top of the cone and rolled several tens of meters down the flanks. Minor ash emissions rapidly dispersed. Less-intense Strombolian activity occurred at the S vent (also called the saddle vent). Intra-crater Strombolian activity at NEC sometimes produced nighttime crater incandescence. The activity at BN sometimes ejected coarse material beyond the crater rim, and rare emissions that had diffuse ash content. The the VOR Strombolian explosions ejected material that sometimes rose above the crater rim and generated diffuse ash emissions.

During the morning of 15 February explosive activity at SEC gradually intensified. Activity originated from the E vents but sometimes intense explosions occurred at the saddle vent. A significant increase in tremor amplitude began at 1700. Tremor amplitude waned at 2100, the same time that explosive activity decreased. At 1700 on 16 February lava began advancing down the E flank of SEC. Part of the cone collapsed at 1705 and generated a pyroclastic flow that traveled 1.5 km along the W wall of the Valle de Bove. An ash plume rapidly dispersed to the S. Explosive activity at SEC increased and lava fountaining began at 1710. Ash clouds drifted S. Lava flows advanced into the Valle de Bove, reaching an elevation of 2,000 m by 1759 at the latest. Lapilli, 1 cm in diameter, was reported in Nicolosi (16 km S) and Mascalucia (19 km S), and ash and lapilli fell in Catania (29 km SSE). Ashfall was also reported in Syracuse, 60-80 km SSE. Another lava flow advanced N into the Valle del Leone. Lava fountains were about 500 m tall, possibly as tall as 600 m. Tremor amplitude began to decrease at 1750 and lava fountains ceased around 1800. Lava effusion from SEC gradually diminished; the flow in the Valle de Bove was a few kilometers long and smaller flows that had traveled N and S reached an elevation of 2,900. Strombolian activity persisted at SEC overnight during 16-17 February and ceased at 0715 on 17 February. Explosions at VOR were sporadic.
Source: Sezione di Catania - Osservatorio Etneo (INGV)

Report for Merapi
BPPTKG reported that the 2021 lava dome continued to grow just below Merapi’s SW rim during 5-11 February. The lava-dome volume was an estimated 295,000 cubic meters on 11 February, with a growth rate of about 48,900 cubic meters per day. Incandescent avalanches of material were occasionally visible; they traveled 700 m SW in the upper parts of the Krasak and Boyong drainages during 9-10 February. Weather conditions prevented visual observations of the lava dome in the summit crater. Seismicity was higher than the previous week. Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) data showed no notable deformation. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public were warned to stay 5 km away from the summit.
Sources: Balai Penyelidikan dan Pengembangan Teknologi Kebencanaan Geologi (BPPTKG), Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Raung
PVMBG reported that daily gray ash plumes rose as high as 2.5 km above Raung’s summit during 10-16 February. Ash plumes were sometimes dense and drifted N, NE, E, and S. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.
Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Sarychev Peak
KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sarychev Peak was identified in satellite images during 5-12 February. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale).
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Aira
JMA reported that during 8-15 February incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was often visible nightly. One explosion and five eruptive events generated eruption plumes that rose 1.4-1.5 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 800-1,100 km away from the crater. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was high, at 2,500 tons per day on 9 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Report for Dukono
Based on satellite and wind model data and information from PVMBG, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 12-13 February ash plumes from Dukono rose to 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.
Sources: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Ebeko
Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 29 January and 1-2 February that sent ash plumes to 3.6 km (11,800 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Fuego
INSIVUMEH reported that continuous avalanches of material at Fuego during 9-10 February descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda drainages. There were 8-12 explosions per hour, generating ash plumes that rose as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim that drifted 15-20 km W and SE. Ashfall was reported in areas downwind including Santa Sofía, Panimache, Morelia, and Yucales, and shockwaves were audible up to 15 km away. The number of explosions increased to 3-6 per hour during 11-12 February. Ash-and-gas plumes rose to 1.1 km and drifted W and SW, causing ashfall in Sangre de Cristo, Palo Verde, and Yepocapa. Shock waves were felt by nearby residents. Avalanches of material descended the flanks, reaching vegetated areas.

During 12-13 February incandescent material was ejected 200 m above the summit and shock waved vibrated local structures. A lava flow had traveled 1 km down the Ceniza drainage, spalling blocks from the flow front that reached vegetated areas. By 14 February the lava flow had lengthened to 1.5 km and a lava flow in the Seca drainage traveled 500 m. During 1020-1023 a series of pyroclastic flows traveled several hundred meters down the Ceniza. Ash plumes from explosions rose 850 m and drifted NE, E, and SE, and caused ashfall in Alotenango, El Porvenir, and Finca La Reunion, in the department of Sacatépequez. During 14-15 February explosions ejected incandescent material 100 m above the summit and rattled nearby structures. Ash plumes rose as high as 450 m and drifted short distances E. Lava flows remained active; they were 800 and 200 m long in the Ceniza and Seca drainages, respectively. Block avalanches from the lava-flow fronts reached vegetated areas.

The lava effusion rate had steadily decreased during the late morning of 15 February. During the afternoon explosions, occurring at a rate of 14-30 per hour, produced ash plumes that rose 850-1,050 m above the summit and drifted as far as 50 km E, NE, and N. Ash fell in Porvenir and Alotenango. Activity continued to decrease through the day, characterized by a reduction in the explosion rate, less intense summit incandescence, and low RSAM values. INSIVUMEH declared an end to the effusive eruption phase. Explosions (12-14 per hour) generated ash plumes that rose over 1 km and drifted 130 km N, NE, and E.
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for Kanlaon
PHIVOLCS reported slightly increased seismic activity and volcanic gas flux at Kanlaon. The seismic network recorded 28 volcanic earthquakes during 11-13 February with local magnitudes between 0.7 and 2.2. They were located at shallow depths around 10 km across the N to E portions of the edifice. The sulfur dioxide emission rate on 13 February was 1,130 tonnes per day, the highest value recorded this year; sulfur dioxide emissions had been higher than background levels of 300 tonnes/day since June 2020. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS and tilt measurements indicated slight inflation of the lower and middle flanks since June 2020. Increased seismic activity continued through 16 February; from 0800 on 14 February to 0800 on 16 February there were a total of 59 earthquakes. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5) and PHIVOLCS reminded the public to remain outside of the 4-km-radius Permanent Danger Zone.
Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Report for Karymsky
KVERT reported that activity at Karymsky had decreased; strong explosions were last observed on 2 January and a thermal anomaly was last detected in satellite images on 5 February. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) on 11 February and then lowered to Green, the lowest level, on 16 February. Gas-and-steam emissions persisted.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Kavachi
Satellite data showed discolored water around and to the SW of Kavachi on 25 January. Discolored water was not obviously visible in 20 January images; weather clouds prevented views of the area in images through 14 February.
Sources: Sentinel Hub, Culture Volcan

Report for Kilauea
HVO reported that a vent on the inner NW wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued to supply the lava lake during 10-16 February. The western part of the lake deepened from 215 m to around 217 m and the lake surface actively overturned at “plate” boundaries. The W end of the lava lake was perched by 3 m above the distal margin of recent overflows. A series of surficial cracks separated the W part of the lake from the stagnant E part. Lava spillovers just N of the inlet of lava sporadically flowed around the NW margin of the perched lake. Gas jetting at two locations above the W vents and two bursts of spatter were observed during 9-10 February. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was 1,600 and 1,100 tons/day on 10 and 12 February, respectively. During 15-16 February a few lava flows were visible along the N and E margins of the E part of the lake.
Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Report for Klyuchevskoy
KVERT reported that activity at Klyuchevskoy notably decreased, with the eruption likely ending on 8 February. The temperature of the thermal anomaly identified in satellite images abruptly dropped on 7 February, and the magnitude of volcanic tremor decreased during 7-8 February and continued to decline through 12 February. Strombolian activity was not visible at night during 11-12 February. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) on 12 February.

The Tokyo VAAC reported that re-suspended ash was identified in satellite images during 12-13 February. On 15 February an ash plume rose to 5.2 km (17,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE.
Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for Lewotolok
PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolo continued during 9-15 February. Gray-and-white ash plumes rose 400-1,000 m above the summit and drifted E and SE. Strombolian explosions ejected material 500 m SE on 13 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 4 km away from the summer crater.
Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Pacaya
INSIVUMEH reported that a during 9-10 February Strombolian explosions at Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater ejected material 200-300 high and away from the crater. Ash clouds occasionally rose as high as 650 m and drifted 10 km W and SW. A 1.3-km-long lava flow was active on the S flank; block avalanches from the front of the lava flow descended 200 m. Activity increased around 1600 on 10 February. Strombolian explosions ejected incandescent material 500 m above the crater rim and produced gas-and-ash plumes that drifted W. Ashfall was reported in the villages of El Patrocinio (about 5 km W) and El Rodeo (4 km WSW). During 11-12 February material was ejected 300-500 m above the crater. Ash plumes rose 950 m and drifted N, causing ashfall in San Francisco de Sales (5 km N), San Jose Calderas, and Concepción el Cedro (9 km NNW).

Seismic data recorded pulses of increased activity during the morning of 12 February and again around 1400 on 13 February. Explosions ejected material 300-500 m above the crater. Ash-and-gas plumes rose almost 500 m and drifted 6 km W, N, and NE, causing ashfall in Santa Elena Barillas (6 km ENE), Mesillas Bajas (5 km NE), and Mesillas Altas. Another pulse of activity was recorded at 1145 on 14 February. Material was ejected as high as 250 m. Ash plumes rose less than 400 m and drifted 5 km E. A 650-m-long lava flow in the SSW flank was active on 15 February. Explosions continued to ejected material as high as 250 m above the vent.
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for San Cristobal
The Washington VAAC reported that on 14 February an ash cloud from San Cristóbal rose to 2.3 km (7,500 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW based on satellite data, webcam images, and weather models. A thermal anomaly was also identified.
Source: Washington Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)

Report for San Miguel
SNET stated that San Miguel’s seismic network recorded long-lasting and continuous periods of volcanic tremor that began on 7 February and continued through 14 February. Discrete earthquakes from minor rock fracturing were also detected. RSAM values fluctuated between 25 and 75 units, below normal values around 150 units.
Source: Servicio Nacional de Estudios Territoriales (SNET)

Report for Sheveluch
KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 5-12 February. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Sinabung
PVMBG reported that the eruption at Sinabung continued during 10-16 February, though weather conditions sometimes prevented visual confirmation. Dense white plumes rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. During 12-14 February pyroclastic flows traveled as far as 2 km down the E and SE flanks. Avalanches descended 500-1,500 m down the E, SE, and S flanks. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 3 km and extensions to 5 km in the SE sector and 4 km in the NE sector.
Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Soufriere St. Vincent
University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) and National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) reported that the lava dome in Soufrière St. Vincent’s main crater continued to grow during 10-16 February. Gas-and-steam continued to rise from the top of the dome as well as along the contact of the old and new domes. The dome also grew taller and spread laterally to the NW and SE. By 12 February the it was 90 m tall, 618 m long, 232 m wide, and had an estimated volume of 6.83 million cubic meters. Four additional seismometers were installed, strengthening the seismic network. NEMO reminded the public to avoid the volcano and that descending into the crater remained extremely dangerous. The Alert Level remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).
Sources: University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC), National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Report for Suwanosejima
JMA reported that incandescence at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was occasionally visible at night during 5-12 February. Intermittent eruptive events produced ash plumes that rose as high as 1.2 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 500 m away from the crater. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale).
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Report for Taal
PHIVOLCS reported that geochemical data collected from Taal’s Main Crater lake indicated a continuous acidification of the water from pH 2.79 to 1.59 between January 2020 and February 2021. A maximum temperature of 77.1 degrees Celsius was unseasonably high, and carbon dioxide/hydrogen sulfide gas flux ratios were consistent with shallow magma degassing. Tilt data indicated minor deflation around Main Crater, though minor inflation was consistently recorded across the Taal region as indicated by analysis of GPS data, InSAR, and microgravity changes.

A total of 68 relatively weak tremor signals were detected during 13-15 February; 50 of those were recorded during 0500-1500 on 15 February. The events on 15 February ranged in duration from two to five minutes and occurred at depths less than 1 km. The depth and location of the earthquakes suggested increased hydrothermal activity beneath Taal Volcano Island. Increased seismic activity continued through 16 February; from 0800 on 15 February to 0800 on 16 February there were a total of 98 earthquakes. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5) and PHIVOLCS strongly recommended no entry onto the island, and the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure (along the walking trail) was strictly prohibited.
Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Report for Villarrica
SERNAGEOMIN reported that dense gas emissions were observed in Villarrica’s webcam images rising 700 m above the summit on 10 February. Long-period (LP) events were recorded by the seismic network at 1146 and 1156 on 16 February. Ash emissions associated with the earthquakes rose 160 m and drifted NW and 280 m and drifted NE, respectively. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, the second lowest level on a four-color scale. ONEMI maintained an Alert Level Yellow (the middle level on a three-color scale) for the municipalities of Villarrica, Pucón (16 km N), Curarrehue, and the commune of Panguipulli, and the exclusion zone for the public of 500 m around the crater.
Sources: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN), Oficina Nacional de Emergencia-Ministerio del Interior (ONEMI)