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 22 February-28 February 2023
Name	Location	Eruption Start Date	Report Status
Aira	Kyushu (Japan)	2017 Mar 25	New
Aniakchak	Alaska Peninsula, Alaska	—	New
East Epi	Vanuatu	—	New
Karangetang	Sangihe Islands	2018 Nov 25	New
Trident	Alaska	—	New
Ambae	Vanuatu	—	Continuing
Bezymianny	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	2016 Dec 5	Continuing
Cotopaxi	Ecuador	—	Continuing
Ebeko	Paramushir Island (Russia)	2022 Jun 11	Continuing
Fuego	South-Central Guatemala	2002 Jan 4	Continuing
Great Sitkin	Andreanof Islands (USA)	2021 May 25	Continuing
Kerinci	Central Sumatra	—	Continuing
Kilauea	Hawaiian Islands (USA)	—	Continuing
Merapi	Central Java	2020 Dec 31	Continuing
Nyamulagira	DR Congo	2018 Apr 18	Continuing
Nyiragongo	DR Congo	—	Continuing
Santa Maria	Southwestern Guatemala	1922 Jun 22	Continuing
Semeru	Eastern Java	2017 Jun 6	Continuing
Sheveluch	Central Kamchatka (Russia)	1999 Aug 15	Continuing
Stromboli	Aeolian Islands (Italy)	1934 Feb 2	Continuing
Suwanosejima	Ryukyu Islands (Japan)	2004 Oct 23	Continuing
Villarrica	Central Chile	2014 Dec 2 ± 7 days	Continuing
Yasur	Vanuatu	1270 ± 110 years	Continuing

All times are local unless otherwise stated.

Aira | 22 February-28 February 2023 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Aira
Kyushu (Japan)

JMA reported ongoing eruptive activity at Minamidake Crater and Showa Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) during 13-20 February and incandescence at both craters was visible nightly. Very small eruptive events occurred at Showa Crater. Three explosions and three or four eruptive events were recorded at Minamidake Crater during the week. Volcanic plumes rose as high as 1.5 km above the Minamidake Crater rim and large blocks were ejected 600-900 m from the vent. During an overflight on 21 February scientists observed white plumes rising from a vent on the N inner crater wall at Showa Crater and they noted more voluminous emissions compared to the 12 October 2022 overflight. No notable changes at Minamidake Crater were observed. At 1230 on 26 February an eruptive event at Minamidake Crater produced a plume that rose 1.2 km above the crater rim. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale), and residents were warned to stay 2 km away from both craters.

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Aniakchak | 22 February-28 February 2023 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Aniakchak
Alaska Peninsula, Alaska

On 22 February AVO raised the Aviation Color Code for Aniakchak to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory (the second lowest level on a four-level scale) due to a recent increase in the number of earthquakes and a shallowing of those events. Background seismicity was generally characterized as deep (more than 15 km below sea level) long-period events occurring at a rate of about four events per month. Beginning in October 2022 the rate increased, and the earthquakes were located at depths less than 9 km below sea level. The earthquake rate further increased on 31 January and was sustained with dozens of earthquakes detected per day, including a M 3.7 earthquake recorded on 17 February.

Elevated seismicity continued during 23-27 February at a variable rate. Dozens of earthquakes were recorded daily during 22-26 February, though more than one hundred small earthquakes (not all locatable) were detected during 24-25 February. Small earthquakes occurred at the rate of about 10 per hour during 26-28 February. AVO noted that there was no indication that an eruption of Aniakchak was imminent, or that one will occur. Increases in seismic activity have been detected previously at other similar volcanoes, with no subsequent eruptions.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

East Epi | 22 February-28 February 2023 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

East Epi
Vanuatu

On 23 February the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department (VMGD) reported that minor unrest continued at Epi. Seismicity was sustained though there was only minor manifestation at the water’s surface; steaming at the surface lasting only a few hours at most was occasionally observed. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5) and the public was warned to stay outside of the Danger Zone, defined as a 2-km radius around the active vent.

Source: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD)

Karangetang | 22 February-28 February 2023 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Karangetang
Sangihe Islands

According to PVMBG the eruption at Karangetang’s Main Crater (S crater) continued during 22-28 February. Nighttime webcam images posted with daily reports showed incandescent lava flows descending the flanks, though images from 0054 on 26 February and 0026 on 1 March showed only minor incandescence near the summit. The Darwin VAAC reported that during 22-23 February ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE based on analyses of satellite imagery and weather models. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public were advised to stay 2.5 km away from Main Crater with an extension to 3.5 km on the S and SE flanks.

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

Trident | 22 February-28 February 2023 | New Activity / Unrest Cite this Report

Trident
Alaska

An earthquake swarm at Trident began on 24 August 2022 and within about four days the seismic network began detecting episodes of weak seismic tremor and low frequency earthquakes. The events were initially located at depths around 25 km, but then they progressively shallowed to around 5 km by 28 August. AVO raised the Aviation Color Code for Trident to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory (the second lowest level on a four-level scale) on 29 September due to an ongoing seismic swarm. AVO attributed the swarm to moving magma or magmatic fluids and noted that seismic swarms had previously been recorded with no subsequent eruptions. The swarm subsided and on 19 October 2022 AVO lowered both the Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level were lowered to Green and Normal, respectively, and noted that tremor had been absent since 30 September.

Beginning on 1 January 2023 seismicity again increased with earthquakes occurring at an average rate of about ten per day at depths less than 6 km. The elevated seismicity was sustained, prompting AVO raised the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory on 22 February. Dozens of small earthquakes were recorded daily during 23-28 February; the largest event, a M4, was recorded during the morning of 24 February. Trident last erupted during 1953-1974.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Ambae | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Ambae
Vanuatu

On 23 February the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department (VMGD) reported that the cone in Ambae’s Lake Voui continued to produce emissions consisting of steam, volcanic gases, and possibly occasional ash that drifted downwind. Volcanic earthquakes were recorded by the seismic network. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 0-5) and the public was warned to stay outside of the Danger Zone, defined as a 2-km radius around the active vents in Lake Voui, and away from drainages during heavy rains.

Source: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD)

Bezymianny | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Bezymianny
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that during 17-23 February a daily thermal anomaly over Bezymianny was identified in satellite images. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale). Dates are based on UTC times; specific events are in local time where noted.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Cotopaxi | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Cotopaxi
Ecuador

IG reported that the eruption at Cotopaxi continued during 22-28 February, characterized by almost daily emissions of gas, steam, and ash; inclement weather conditions occasionally prevented views. Gas-and-steam emissions rose 500 m above the crater rim and drifted W during 21-22 February. Weather clouds prevented visual observations of the volcano during most of 23 February, though by the late afternoon and into the next morning steam emissions with low ash content were seen rising 500 m and drifted SW. Gas-and-steam plumes rose 500 m and drifted W on 25 February. Several emissions of gas, steam, and ash rose as high as 2.4 km and drifted SE on 26 February. During periodic breaks in weather clouds, continuous emissions of gas, steam, and ash sere seen rising as high as 1.5 km and drifting E and SE. Minor amounts of ash fell in the province of Pichincha in Rumiñahui (61 km N), Rumipamba Vallecito, Conocoto (41 km N), El Pedregal (60 km N), Guamaní (42 km NNW), Quitumbe (41 km NNW), La Ecuatoriana (44 km NNW), Chillogallo (47 km NNW), Urubamba (Santo Tomas, 40 km NNW), La Magdalena (Barrio Nuevo, Villaflora, 48 km NNW) and San Bartolo. At 1430 on 28 February an ash plume rose 500 m and drifted SW. Servicio Nacional de Gestión de Riesgos y Emergencias (SNGRE) maintained the Alert Level at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale).

Sources: Servicio Nacional de Gestión de Riesgos y Emergencias (SNGRE), Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)

Ebeko | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Ebeko
Paramushir Island (Russia)

KVERT reported that moderate activity at Ebeko was ongoing during 16-23 February. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 21 February. According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island, about 7 km E) explosions on 22 February generated ash plumes that rose as high as 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale). Dates are based on UTC times; specific events are in local time where noted.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Fuego | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Fuego
South-Central Guatemala

INSIVUMEH reported that 4-10 explosions per hour were recorded at Fuego during 22-28 February, generating ash plumes that rose as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim and drifted as far as 30 km NW, W, and SW. Weather clouds often prevented visual observations on 22 February. Explosions ejected incandescent material 100-400 m above the summit each day, and daily shock waves rattled structures in communities around the volcano. Daily block avalanches descended various drainages including the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Honda, Las Lajas (SE), and El Jute (ESE), and often reached vegetated areas. Ashfall was recorded almost daily in areas downwind including Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), El Porvenir (8 km ENE), San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW), Finca la Asunción, Finca Palo Verde, and La Soledad (11 km N).

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

Great Sitkin | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Great Sitkin
Andreanof Islands (USA)

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin was confirmed by recent satellite images. A radar image from 19 February showed advancement of the E lobe of the flow field. Additionally, a smaller lobe to the S was advancing towards the crater rim where lava previously spilled down the SW flank in 2021-2022. Lava effusion in the summit crater was visible in 24 and 26 February satellite images. Seismicity was very low 22-28 February with a few local earthquakes detected during 22-23 and 24-25 February. Weather cloud cover sometimes prevented webcam and satellite views. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Kerinci | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kerinci
Central Sumatra

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Kerinci was ongoing during 22-28 February. Weather clouds often prevented visual observations of the volcano. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 50-150 m above the crater rim and drifted W and E on 26 February. The next day white-and-brown ash plumes rose as high as 150 m and drifted W. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded to stay 3 km away from the crater.

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

Kilauea | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Kilauea
Hawaiian Islands (USA)

HVO reported that the eruption on the floor of Kilauea’s Halema’uma’u Crater continued during 22-28 February but at a decreased rate. The E and central vents were not erupting. The western lake in the basin of the 2021-2022 lava lake remained active but with weak lava flows. A small amount of lava is circulating within the lake with intermittent crustal overturns; the lake is mostly crusted over. The Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch (the second highest level on a four-level scale) and the Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).

Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Merapi | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Merapi
Central Java

BPPTKG reported that the eruption at Merapi (on Java) continued during 17-23 February and seismicity remained at high levels. The SW lava dome produced 11 lava avalanches that traveled as far as 1.7 km down the SW flank (upstream in the Bebeng and Boyong drainages). No significant morphological changes to the central and SW lava domes were evident in webcam images. An avalanche from the weathered and altered 1998 lava wall was visible in webcam images on 10 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3-7 km away from the summit based on location.

Source: Balai Penyelidikan dan Pengembangan Teknologi Kebencanaan Geologi (BPPTKG)

Nyamulagira | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Nyamulagira
DR Congo

The Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) reported that the lava lake on Nyamulagira’s crater floor continued to be active during 13-19 February. Seismicity was generally low, characterized by a few long-period earthquakes located up to 15 km deep along the large fracture connecting the Nyamuragira and Nyiragongo. High concentrations of carbon dioxide were measured in the Mazuku areas, and in an area to the W of a camp in the Lac Vert district in Bulengo; OVG warned residents to stay away from those areas.

Source: Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG)

Nyiragongo | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Nyiragongo
DR Congo

The Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) reported that the lava lake on Nyiragongo’s crater floor continued to be active during 13-19 February; faint glow emanated from the crater on 15 February. Seismicity was generally low, characterized by a few long-period earthquakes located up to 15 km deep along the large fracture connecting the Nyamuragira and Nyiragongo. A seismic station near the volcano registered a minor increase in the intensity of signals on 17 February. High concentrations of carbon dioxide were measured in the Mazuku areas, and in an area to the W of a camp in the Lac Vert district in Bulengo; OVG warned residents to stay away from those areas. The Alert Level remained at Yellow.

Source: Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG)

Santa Maria | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Santa Maria
Southwestern Guatemala

INSIVUMEH reported that the eruption at Santa María’s Santiaguito lava-dome complex continued during 22-28 February. Effusion from Caliente dome fed lava flows that slowly descended the San Isidro and Zanjón Seco drainages on the W and SW flanks. Incandescence from the dome and the lava flows was visible nightly. Block-and-ash flows from the dome, and from both the ends and sides of the flows, descended the S, SW, and W flanks almost daily. Ash plumes from the avalanches and from occasional explosions at the summit rose a few hundred meters high; during 22-23 February ash plumes rose 700 m above the summit and drifted WNW.

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

Semeru | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Semeru
Eastern Java

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 22-28 February. Dense white-and-gray ash plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the summit and drifted N, NE, and E on 22 February. Weather conditions mostly prevented visual observations during the rest of the week, though at 0705 on 23 February a dense white-and-gray ash plume was seen rising to 1 km and drifting SE. The seismic network recorded an eruptive event at 0404 on 26 February; no emissions were observed. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). The public was warned to stay at least 5 km away from the summit in all directions, 13 km from the summit to the SE, 100 m away from the banks of the Kobokan drainage as far as 17 km from the summit, and to avoid other drainages originating on Semeru, including the Bang, Kembar, and Sat, due to lahar, avalanche, and pyroclastic flow hazards.

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

Sheveluch | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Sheveluch
Central Kamchatka (Russia)

KVERT reported that the ongoing eruption at Sheveluch was generally characterized by explosions, hot avalanches, lava-dome extrusion, and strong fumarolic activity. A daily thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images during 16-23 February. During a field visit to the volcano on 25 February Kamchatka Volcano Station scientists observed and photographed the dome and saw incandescent debris avalanches on the originating at the dome’s summit. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale). Dates are based on UTC times; specific events are in local time where noted.

Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), Kamchatka Volcanological Station

Stromboli | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Stromboli
Aeolian Islands (Italy)

INGV reported that both explosive and effusive activity at Stromboli occurred during 20-26 February at two vents in Area N, within the upper part of the Sciara del Fuoco, and at least two vents in the Area C-S (South-Central Crater area) in the crater terrace area. Explosions at vents N1 and N2 in Area N were variable in intensity and ejected coarse material (bombs and lapilli) 80-150 m at a rate of 2-7 explosions per hour. Spattering occasionally occurred at N2 vents during 20-24 February and was sometimes intense. Explosive activity at S2 in the Central-South area (CS) ejected fine-to-coarse material as high as 150 m above the vent at a rate of 1-7 explosions per hour. At around 0700 on 27 February lava overflowed vents in Area N and produced lava flows and at around midnight intense spattering in the same area was visible. Spattering continued at least through 2100 on 28 February; the lava flows were cooling, though some areas were hot due to accumulated material.

Source: Sezione di Catania - Osservatorio Etneo (INGV)

Suwanosejima | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Suwanosejima
Ryukyu Islands (Japan)

JMA reported that the eruption at Suwanosejima's Ontake Crater continued during 20-27 February. A total of 20 explosions were recorded, sending ash plumes as high as 2 km above the crater rim and ejecting large blocks as far as 400 m from the vent. Crater incandescence was visible at night. Occasional ashfall and rumbling noises were reported in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW). The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale) and residents were warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Villarrica | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Villarrica
Central Chile

The eruption at Villarrica was ongoing during 22-28 February. Low-intensity gas emissions rose from the crater on 22 February. Long-period earthquakes recorded at 1056 and 1301 on 27 February were associated with ash plumes that rose 300 m above the crater rim. Several additional minor ash emissions were visible during 1056-1320. The Alert Level remained at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) according to SERNAGEOMIN. ONEMI maintained the Alert Level at Yellow (the middle level on a three-color scale) for the municipalities of Villarrica, Pucón (16 km N), Curarrehue, and the commune of Panguipulli.

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

Yasur | 22 February-28 February 2023 | Continuing ActivityCite this Report

Yasur
Vanuatu

On 23 February the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD) reported that activity at Yasur continued at a high level of “major unrest,” as defined by the Alert Level 2 status (the middle level on a scale of 0-4). Recent observations confirmed that low-to-moderate explosions continued, ejecting bombs that landed back into the crater and producing ash, gas, and steam emissions. The larger explosions occasionally ejected material outside of the crater. The public was reminded to not enter the restricted area within 600 m around the cone, defined by Danger Zone A on the hazard map.

Source: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD)

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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 Aira
JMA reported ongoing eruptive activity at Minamidake Crater and Showa Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) during 13-20 February and incandescence at both craters was visible nightly. Very small eruptive events occurred at Showa Crater. Three explosions and three or four eruptive events were recorded at Minamidake Crater during the week. Volcanic plumes rose as high as 1.5 km above the Minamidake Crater rim and large blocks were ejected 600-900 m from the vent. During an overflight on 21 February scientists observed white plumes rising from a vent on the N inner crater wall at Showa Crater and they noted more voluminous emissions compared to the 12 October 2022 overflight. No notable changes at Minamidake Crater were observed. At 1230 on 26 February an eruptive event at Minamidake Crater produced a plume that rose 1.2 km above the crater rim. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale), and residents were warned to stay 2 km away from both craters.
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Report for Aniakchak
On 22 February AVO raised the Aviation Color Code for Aniakchak to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory (the second lowest level on a four-level scale) due to a recent increase in the number of earthquakes and a shallowing of those events. Background seismicity was generally characterized as deep (more than 15 km below sea level) long-period events occurring at a rate of about four events per month. Beginning in October 2022 the rate increased, and the earthquakes were located at depths less than 9 km below sea level. The earthquake rate further increased on 31 January and was sustained with dozens of earthquakes detected per day, including a M 3.7 earthquake recorded on 17 February.

Elevated seismicity continued during 23-27 February at a variable rate. Dozens of earthquakes were recorded daily during 22-26 February, though more than one hundred small earthquakes (not all locatable) were detected during 24-25 February. Small earthquakes occurred at the rate of about 10 per hour during 26-28 February. AVO noted that there was no indication that an eruption of Aniakchak was imminent, or that one will occur. Increases in seismic activity have been detected previously at other similar volcanoes, with no subsequent eruptions.
Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for East Epi
On 23 February the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department (VMGD) reported that minor unrest continued at Epi. Seismicity was sustained though there was only minor manifestation at the water’s surface; steaming at the surface lasting only a few hours at most was occasionally observed. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5) and the public was warned to stay outside of the Danger Zone, defined as a 2-km radius around the active vent.
Source: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD)

Report for Karangetang
According to PVMBG the eruption at Karangetang’s Main Crater (S crater) continued during 22-28 February. Nighttime webcam images posted with daily reports showed incandescent lava flows descending the flanks, though images from 0054 on 26 February and 0026 on 1 March showed only minor incandescence near the summit. The Darwin VAAC reported that during 22-23 February ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE based on analyses of satellite imagery and weather models. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public were advised to stay 2.5 km away from Main Crater with an extension to 3.5 km on the S and SE flanks.
Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM), Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)

Report for Trident
An earthquake swarm at Trident began on 24 August 2022 and within about four days the seismic network began detecting episodes of weak seismic tremor and low frequency earthquakes. The events were initially located at depths around 25 km, but then they progressively shallowed to around 5 km by 28 August. AVO raised the Aviation Color Code for Trident to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory (the second lowest level on a four-level scale) on 29 September due to an ongoing seismic swarm. AVO attributed the swarm to moving magma or magmatic fluids and noted that seismic swarms had previously been recorded with no subsequent eruptions. The swarm subsided and on 19 October 2022 AVO lowered both the Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level were lowered to Green and Normal, respectively, and noted that tremor had been absent since 30 September.

Beginning on 1 January 2023 seismicity again increased with earthquakes occurring at an average rate of about ten per day at depths less than 6 km. The elevated seismicity was sustained, prompting AVO raised the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory on 22 February. Dozens of small earthquakes were recorded daily during 23-28 February; the largest event, a M4, was recorded during the morning of 24 February. Trident last erupted during 1953-1974.
Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for Ambae
On 23 February the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department (VMGD) reported that the cone in Ambae’s Lake Voui continued to produce emissions consisting of steam, volcanic gases, and possibly occasional ash that drifted downwind. Volcanic earthquakes were recorded by the seismic network. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 0-5) and the public was warned to stay outside of the Danger Zone, defined as a 2-km radius around the active vents in Lake Voui, and away from drainages during heavy rains.
Source: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD)

Report for Bezymianny
KVERT reported that during 17-23 February a daily thermal anomaly over Bezymianny was identified in satellite images. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale). Dates are based on UTC times; specific events are in local time where noted.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Cotopaxi
IG reported that the eruption at Cotopaxi continued during 22-28 February, characterized by almost daily emissions of gas, steam, and ash; inclement weather conditions occasionally prevented views. Gas-and-steam emissions rose 500 m above the crater rim and drifted W during 21-22 February. Weather clouds prevented visual observations of the volcano during most of 23 February, though by the late afternoon and into the next morning steam emissions with low ash content were seen rising 500 m and drifted SW. Gas-and-steam plumes rose 500 m and drifted W on 25 February. Several emissions of gas, steam, and ash rose as high as 2.4 km and drifted SE on 26 February. During periodic breaks in weather clouds, continuous emissions of gas, steam, and ash sere seen rising as high as 1.5 km and drifting E and SE. Minor amounts of ash fell in the province of Pichincha in Rumiñahui (61 km N), Rumipamba Vallecito, Conocoto (41 km N), El Pedregal (60 km N), Guamaní (42 km NNW), Quitumbe (41 km NNW), La Ecuatoriana (44 km NNW), Chillogallo (47 km NNW), Urubamba (Santo Tomas, 40 km NNW), La Magdalena (Barrio Nuevo, Villaflora, 48 km NNW) and San Bartolo. At 1430 on 28 February an ash plume rose 500 m and drifted SW. Servicio Nacional de Gestión de Riesgos y Emergencias (SNGRE) maintained the Alert Level at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale).
Sources: Servicio Nacional de Gestión de Riesgos y Emergencias (SNGRE), Instituto Geofísico-Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IG-EPN)

Report for Ebeko
KVERT reported that moderate activity at Ebeko was ongoing during 16-23 February. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 21 February. According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island, about 7 km E) explosions on 22 February generated ash plumes that rose as high as 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale). Dates are based on UTC times; specific events are in local time where noted.
Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)

Report for Fuego
INSIVUMEH reported that 4-10 explosions per hour were recorded at Fuego during 22-28 February, generating ash plumes that rose as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim and drifted as far as 30 km NW, W, and SW. Weather clouds often prevented visual observations on 22 February. Explosions ejected incandescent material 100-400 m above the summit each day, and daily shock waves rattled structures in communities around the volcano. Daily block avalanches descended various drainages including the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Honda, Las Lajas (SE), and El Jute (ESE), and often reached vegetated areas. Ashfall was recorded almost daily in areas downwind including Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), El Porvenir (8 km ENE), San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW), Finca la Asunción, Finca Palo Verde, and La Soledad (11 km N).
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for Great Sitkin
AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin was confirmed by recent satellite images. A radar image from 19 February showed advancement of the E lobe of the flow field. Additionally, a smaller lobe to the S was advancing towards the crater rim where lava previously spilled down the SW flank in 2021-2022. Lava effusion in the summit crater was visible in 24 and 26 February satellite images. Seismicity was very low 22-28 February with a few local earthquakes detected during 22-23 and 24-25 February. Weather cloud cover sometimes prevented webcam and satellite views. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.
Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Report for Kerinci
PVMBG reported that the eruption at Kerinci was ongoing during 22-28 February. Weather clouds often prevented visual observations of the volcano. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 50-150 m above the crater rim and drifted W and E on 26 February. The next day white-and-brown ash plumes rose as high as 150 m and drifted W. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded to stay 3 km away from the crater.
Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Kilauea
HVO reported that the eruption on the floor of Kilauea’s Halema’uma’u Crater continued during 22-28 February but at a decreased rate. The E and central vents were not erupting. The western lake in the basin of the 2021-2022 lava lake remained active but with weak lava flows. A small amount of lava is circulating within the lake with intermittent crustal overturns; the lake is mostly crusted over. The Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch (the second highest level on a four-level scale) and the Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale).
Source: US Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

Report for Merapi
BPPTKG reported that the eruption at Merapi (on Java) continued during 17-23 February and seismicity remained at high levels. The SW lava dome produced 11 lava avalanches that traveled as far as 1.7 km down the SW flank (upstream in the Bebeng and Boyong drainages). No significant morphological changes to the central and SW lava domes were evident in webcam images. An avalanche from the weathered and altered 1998 lava wall was visible in webcam images on 10 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3-7 km away from the summit based on location.
Source: Balai Penyelidikan dan Pengembangan Teknologi Kebencanaan Geologi (BPPTKG)

Report for Nyamulagira
The Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) reported that the lava lake on Nyamulagira’s crater floor continued to be active during 13-19 February. Seismicity was generally low, characterized by a few long-period earthquakes located up to 15 km deep along the large fracture connecting the Nyamuragira and Nyiragongo. High concentrations of carbon dioxide were measured in the Mazuku areas, and in an area to the W of a camp in the Lac Vert district in Bulengo; OVG warned residents to stay away from those areas.
Source: Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG)

Report for Nyiragongo
The Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) reported that the lava lake on Nyiragongo’s crater floor continued to be active during 13-19 February; faint glow emanated from the crater on 15 February. Seismicity was generally low, characterized by a few long-period earthquakes located up to 15 km deep along the large fracture connecting the Nyamuragira and Nyiragongo. A seismic station near the volcano registered a minor increase in the intensity of signals on 17 February. High concentrations of carbon dioxide were measured in the Mazuku areas, and in an area to the W of a camp in the Lac Vert district in Bulengo; OVG warned residents to stay away from those areas. The Alert Level remained at Yellow.
Source: Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG)

Report for Santa Maria
INSIVUMEH reported that the eruption at Santa María’s Santiaguito lava-dome complex continued during 22-28 February. Effusion from Caliente dome fed lava flows that slowly descended the San Isidro and Zanjón Seco drainages on the W and SW flanks. Incandescence from the dome and the lava flows was visible nightly. Block-and-ash flows from the dome, and from both the ends and sides of the flows, descended the S, SW, and W flanks almost daily. Ash plumes from the avalanches and from occasional explosions at the summit rose a few hundred meters high; during 22-23 February ash plumes rose 700 m above the summit and drifted WNW.
Source: Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Vulcanologia, Meteorologia, e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH)

Report for Semeru
PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 22-28 February. Dense white-and-gray ash plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the summit and drifted N, NE, and E on 22 February. Weather conditions mostly prevented visual observations during the rest of the week, though at 0705 on 23 February a dense white-and-gray ash plume was seen rising to 1 km and drifting SE. The seismic network recorded an eruptive event at 0404 on 26 February; no emissions were observed. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). The public was warned to stay at least 5 km away from the summit in all directions, 13 km from the summit to the SE, 100 m away from the banks of the Kobokan drainage as far as 17 km from the summit, and to avoid other drainages originating on Semeru, including the Bang, Kembar, and Sat, due to lahar, avalanche, and pyroclastic flow hazards.
Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)

Report for Sheveluch
KVERT reported that the ongoing eruption at Sheveluch was generally characterized by explosions, hot avalanches, lava-dome extrusion, and strong fumarolic activity. A daily thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images during 16-23 February. During a field visit to the volcano on 25 February Kamchatka Volcano Station scientists observed and photographed the dome and saw incandescent debris avalanches on the originating at the dome’s summit. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale). Dates are based on UTC times; specific events are in local time where noted.
Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), Kamchatka Volcanological Station

Report for Stromboli
INGV reported that both explosive and effusive activity at Stromboli occurred during 20-26 February at two vents in Area N, within the upper part of the Sciara del Fuoco, and at least two vents in the Area C-S (South-Central Crater area) in the crater terrace area. Explosions at vents N1 and N2 in Area N were variable in intensity and ejected coarse material (bombs and lapilli) 80-150 m at a rate of 2-7 explosions per hour. Spattering occasionally occurred at N2 vents during 20-24 February and was sometimes intense. Explosive activity at S2 in the Central-South area (CS) ejected fine-to-coarse material as high as 150 m above the vent at a rate of 1-7 explosions per hour. At around 0700 on 27 February lava overflowed vents in Area N and produced lava flows and at around midnight intense spattering in the same area was visible. Spattering continued at least through 2100 on 28 February; the lava flows were cooling, though some areas were hot due to accumulated material.
Source: Sezione di Catania - Osservatorio Etneo (INGV)

Report for Suwanosejima
JMA reported that the eruption at Suwanosejima's Ontake Crater continued during 20-27 February. A total of 20 explosions were recorded, sending ash plumes as high as 2 km above the crater rim and ejecting large blocks as far as 400 m from the vent. Crater incandescence was visible at night. Occasional ashfall and rumbling noises were reported in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW). The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale) and residents were warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)

Report for Villarrica
The eruption at Villarrica was ongoing during 22-28 February. Low-intensity gas emissions rose from the crater on 22 February. Long-period earthquakes recorded at 1056 and 1301 on 27 February were associated with ash plumes that rose 300 m above the crater rim. Several additional minor ash emissions were visible during 1056-1320. The Alert Level remained at Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) according to SERNAGEOMIN. ONEMI maintained the Alert Level at Yellow (the middle level on a three-color scale) for the municipalities of Villarrica, Pucón (16 km N), Curarrehue, and the commune of Panguipulli.
Sources: Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN), Oficina Nacional de Emergencia-Ministerio del Interior (ONEMI)

Report for Yasur
On 23 February the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD) reported that activity at Yasur continued at a high level of “major unrest,” as defined by the Alert Level 2 status (the middle level on a scale of 0-4). Recent observations confirmed that low-to-moderate explosions continued, ejecting bombs that landed back into the crater and producing ash, gas, and steam emissions. The larger explosions occasionally ejected material outside of the crater. The public was reminded to not enter the restricted area within 600 m around the cone, defined by Danger Zone A on the hazard map.
Source: Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD)