Most Recent Weekly Report: 8 March-14 March 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 8-14 March. Satellite images and web camera views were mostly cloudy, though elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 8-9 March. Seismicity was low. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Most Recent Bulletin Report: May 2022 (BGVN 47:05) Cite this Report

Weekly Reports - Index

2023: January | February | March
2022: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
2021: May | July | August | September | October | November | December
2020: February | October
2019: February | May | June | July
2018: January | June | August
2017: November
2002: May

8 March-14 March 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 8-14 March. Satellite images and web camera views were mostly cloudy, though elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 8-9 March. Seismicity was low. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

1 March-7 March 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 1-7 March. Satellite images and web camera views were cloudy. Seismicity was low. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

22 February-28 February 2023 Cite this Report

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)

15 February-21 February 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that a 15 February satellite image confirmed continuing lava effusion at Great Sitkin and growth of the flow field to the E, though effusion likely continued through 20 February. Weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views; steam emissions were observed during 17-18 February and weakly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 19-20 February. Seismicity was very low during 21-22 February with one small local earthquake detected. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

8 February-14 February 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that a 6 February satellite image confirmed continuing lava effusion at Great Sitkin and growth of the flow field to the E; effusion likely continued during 7-14 February. Weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views, though steam emissions were observed during 8 and 11-12 February. Seismicity was low most of the week; a network outage began at 2120 on 12 February and prevented transmission of seismic data. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

1 February-7 February 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin was low during 1-7 February. No activity was observed, though weather clouds obscured satellite and webcam views. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

25 January-31 January 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slightly elevated surface temperatures at Great Sitkin were identified in satellite images during 25-26 January. Seismicity was low during 25-31 January and a few small earthquakes recorded during 27-28 January. Satellite and webcam views were mostly cloudy. A 26 January radar image confirmed growth of the flow field to the E. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

18 January-24 January 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slightly elevated surface temperatures at Great Sitkin were identified in satellite images on 18 January, suggesting continuing lava effusion at a low rate primarily to the S and E. A few small earthquakes were detected on most days by the local seismic network. No activity was observed in mostly cloudy satellite and web camera images during 19-24 January. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

11 January-17 January 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that radar images acquired on 13 and 15 January confirmed ongoing slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin; effusion likely continued through 17 January. Slightly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 10-11 January and a few small earthquakes were detected on most days during 10-17 January. Weather clouds sometimes obscured satellite and webcam views. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

4 January-10 January 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion likely continued at Great Sitkin during 4-10 January, though weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views. A few small daily earthquakes were detected during 6-10 January and slightly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 7-10 January. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

28 December-3 January 2023 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion likely continued at Great Sitkin during 28 December 2022-3 January 2023, though weather clouds mostly obscured satellite and webcam views. In general, a few small daily local earthquakes were recorded, though there were many during 1-2 January. A large steam plume was seen rising from the lava flow on 29 December and slightly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 2-3 January. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

21 December-27 December 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that satellite data acquired on 22 December confirmed that the lava flow field at Great Sitkin was advancing E. Slow lava effusion likely continued during 23-27 December, though nothing significant was visible in sometimes cloudy satellite images or detected in seismic data. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 21-23 and 25-27 December. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

14 December-20 December 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion likely continued at Great Sitkin during 13-20 December, though satellite and webcam observations were mostly obscured by clouds. Nothing notable was observed in clear webcam and satellite views during 19-20 December. No significant seismic activity was detected. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

7 December-13 December 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 27 November-11 December based on satellite images. Cloud cover mostly prevented satellite and webcam observations during 7-12 December. Seismicity remained at low levels. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

30 November-6 December 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 30 Novmeber-6 December. Lobes of lava advanced an additional 25-30 m along the S edge of the flow field and about 15 m SE, based on 25 November satellite images. Cloud cover prevented satellite and webcam observations during 30 Novmeber-6 December. Seismicity remained at low levels. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

23 November-29 November 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 23-29 November and the flow field continued to grow. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 27-29 November. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

16 November-22 November 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 15-22 November and the flow field continued to grow. Flow lobes extended about 600 m E of the vent and about 430 m S. Seismicity was low, with the occasional detection of low-frequency earthquakes. Satellite and webcam images were often cloudy through the week. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

9 November-15 November 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 9-15 November and seismicity was low. Satellite images were often cloudy, though elevated surface temperatures were identified on 9, 13, and 15 November. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

2 November-8 November 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 2-8 November and seismicity was low. Satellite images were often cloudy, though elevated surface temperatures were identified almost daily. The flow field continued to grow, with lobes of lava extending more than 600 m E and around 430 m S. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

26 October-1 November 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin was very low during 25 October-1 November and nothing significant was seen in partly cloudy satellite or web camera views. Lava effusion likely continued. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

19 October-25 October 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 19-25 October along with low levels of seismicity. Slightly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 21-22 October. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

12 October-18 October 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 11-18 October. Satellite images were mostly cloudy, though continued slow growth of the flow field and steaming from a new flow margin were identified in satellite images on 12 October. Seismicity remained at low levels. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

5 October-11 October 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that continuing slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin was confirmed by a 5 October satellite image and likely continued during 6-11 October. Seismicity remained at low levels, though it slightly increased during 5-6 October. Elevated surface temperatures were identified during 4-8 October; weather clouds prevented webcam and satellite views during 8-11 October. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

28 September-4 October 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that continuing slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin was confirmed by a 27 September satellite image and likely continued during 28 September-4 October. Elevated surface temperatures were identified during 28-29 September; weather clouds often prevented webcam and satellite views during the rest of the week. Seismicity remained at low levels. 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 Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

21 September-27 September 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 20-27 September. Elevated surface temperatures were identified during 20-21 September; weather clouds often prevented webcam and satellite views during the rest of the week. A data outage that affected the local seismic network was resolved by 23 September. Seismicity was low during 24-25 September. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

14 September-20 September 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 13-20 September, an analysis confirmed by clear satellite images during 13-15 September. Lava flowed outward from the vent area but flows at the margins did not advance. Minor steam emissions were also visible during 13-14 September and elevated surface temperatures were identified during 13-15 and 17-18 September. Weather cloud cover occasionally prevented webcam and satellite views. A data outage affected the local seismic network during 16-20 September, though no significant activity was detected on regional geophysical networks. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

7 September-13 September 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 6-13 September, though weather cloud cover prevented visual confirmation with webcam and satellite images. Seismicity was very low. Weakly-elevated surface temperatures consistent with lava effusion in the summit crater were identified overnight during 12-13 September. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

31 August-6 September 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 30 August-6 September with lava thickening over the vent and expanding outward; the lava flows did not advance. Minor steaming from the summit was observed during 30-31 August, and elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 2-5 September. Seismicity was very low. Weather clouds sometimes prevented satellite and webcam views. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

24 August-30 August 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin probably continued during 24-30 August with lava around the vent likely thickening. Weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views during most of the week; elevated surface temperatures were occasionally visible. Seismicity was very low. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

17 August-23 August 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 16-23 August; no changes to the flow margins were visible but the lava had deepened around the vent. Weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views during most of the week. Seismicity was low and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

10 August-16 August 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 9-16 August; no changes to the flow margins were visible but the lava had deepened around the vent. Weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views during most of the week. Seismicity was low and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images on most days. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

3 August-9 August 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 2-9 August; no changes to the flow lengths were visible but the lava had deepened around the vent. Weather clouds often obscured satellite and webcam views during most of the week, though no activity was visible when views were clear. Seismicity was low and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 5-9 August. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

27 July-2 August 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 26 July-2 August. Weather clouds obscured satellite and webcam views during most of the week, though satellite radar data confirmed ongoing effusion; flows thickened but did not advance. Seismicity was low, and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. Steam emissions were visible in satellite and webcam images during 29-30 July. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

20 July-26 July 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 19-26 July. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 19-20 July; weather clouds obscured satellite and webcam views during most of the rest of the week. Seismicity was low, and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. Steam emissions were visible in satellite images during 25-26 July. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

13 July-19 July 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 12-19 July. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images on most days; weather clouds sometimes obscured satellite and webcam views. Seismicity was low, and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

6 July-12 July 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 6-12 July. Elevated surface temperatures were occasionally identified in satellite images; weather clouds sometimes obscured satellite and webcam views. Seismicity was low, and occasional local earthquakes were recorded. Sulfur dioxide emissions were possibly detected during 9-10 July. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

29 June-5 July 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 29 June-5 July. The lava-flow field grew slightly, expanding 15 m E. Elevated surface temperatures were occasionally identified in satellite images; weather clouds sometimes obscured satellite and webcam views. Seismicity was low. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

22 June-28 June 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 21-28 June. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 26-27 June; weather clouds obscured satellite and webcam views on the other days. Seismicity was low. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

15 June-21 June 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 8-14 June. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data almost daily, consistent with lava effusion; weather clouds sometimes obscured satellite and webcam views. Seismicity was low with several small local earthquakes detected by the seismic network. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

8 June-14 June 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 8-14 June. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data almost daily, consistent with lava effusion. Seismicity was low. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

1 June-7 June 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 31 May-7 June, though weather clouds sometimes hindered observations. Surface temperatures were occasionally identified in satellite data, consistent with lava effusion. A few small earthquakes were detected on a few of the days. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

25 May-31 May 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 24-31 May, though weather clouds sometimes hindered observations. Almost daily elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data, consistent with lava effusion, and satellite images during 28-29 May showed that the lava field had expanded. Steam emissions were occasionally visible. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

18 May-24 May 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the eruption at Great Sitkin continued during 17-24 May. Almost daily elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data, consistent with lava effusion. Steam emissions were visible during 23-24 May. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

11 May-17 May 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that minor advancement of the lava flows at Great Sitkin indicated continuing slow lava effusion during 10-17 May. Daily elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

4 May-10 May 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 3-10 May; a 5 May satellite image showed that the S flank flow had advanced 15 m. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data during 6-10 May. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

27 April-3 May 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 27 April-3 May; no significant seismic activity was detected and weather clouds obscured 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)

20 April-26 April 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 20-26 April, and very low seismicity persisted. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

13 April-19 April 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 13-19 April, based on high-resolution satellite data. Weather clouds prevented visual observations on most days. Very low seismicity persisted. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

6 April-12 April 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 5-12 April and very low seismicity persisted. The lava flows on the S, W, and N flanks had advanced up to 10 m during 2-8 April, and elevated surface temperatures identified in satellite images during 8-10 April indicated continuing effusion. Steaming from the vent and flow field was occasionally identified in satellite images. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

30 March-5 April 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 30 March through 5 April and low seismicity persisted. Cloud cover prevented views of the volcano most of the week, but slow lava effusion continued; minor flow fronts advanced from the W and S lobes, as well as the E margin. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

23 March-29 March 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 22-29 March and very low seismicity persisted. Cloud cover prevented views of the volcano most of the week; one satellite image acquired on 24 March showed slow expansion of the flow field. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

16 March-22 March 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 15-22 March and very low seismicity persisted. Cloud cover prevented views of the volcano most of the week; slightly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 20-21 March. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

9 March-15 March 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 8-15 March and very low seismicity persisted. The rate of effusion slightly increased from 28 February to 11 March, based on radar data collected on those two dates; lava was extruded in all direction from the vent and the southern lobe advanced 20 m. Snow covered most of the flow except for the advancing fronts of the lava lobes and around the vent area. Elevated surface temperatures were periodically identified in satellite images. Minor steaming was visible in webcam images on 12 March. The steaming was dense and also visible in satellite images during 12-13 March. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

2 March-8 March 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 2-8 March and very low seismicity persisted. Elevated surface temperatures were periodically identified in satellite images. A possible steam plume rising above the weather clouds was visible during 4-5 March. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

23 February-1 March 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 23 February-1 March and very low seismicity persisted. Weakly elevated surface temperatures at the summit were detected during 25-28 February. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

16 February-22 February 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 16-22 February, though cloudy conditions often prevented satellite and webcam views. Lava flows had continued to advance down the S, W, and N flanks, and were 1,050 m, 930 m, and 220 m long, respectively. Lava flows were also active on the SSW flank. Seismicity remained slightly above background levels, and a few, daily, small local earthquakes were recorded during 19-21 February. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

9 February-15 February 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 9-15 February, though cloudy conditions often prevented satellite and webcam views. Seismicity remained slightly above background levels, and elevated surface temperatures were periodically identified in satellite images. A steam plume was occasionally visible in webcam images. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

2 February-8 February 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 2-8 February, though cloudy conditions often prevented satellite and webcam views. Seismicity remained slightly elevated. The flow field expanded with up to 100 m of advancement of the S, W, and N flank lava flows. Elevated surface temperatures were periodically identified in satellite images. A steam plume was visible in webcam images during 5-6 February. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

26 January-1 February 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 26 January-1 February, though cloudy conditions often prevented satellite and webcam views. Clearer satellite and webcam views during 30-31 January confirmed growth of the flow field, including the W and S lava flows. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 31 January-1 February. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

19 January-25 January 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 18-25 January, and seismicity remained at very low levels. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data during 19-22 January. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

12 January-18 January 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 12-18 January, though cloudy conditions prevented satellite and webcam confirmation. Seismicity was very low and small events were occasionally recorded. Steam emissions were observed in webcam views during 14-15 January. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

5 January-11 January 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin probably continued during 5-11 January, though cloudy conditions prevented satellite and webcam confirmation. Seismicity was very low; several small seismic events were recorded during 9-10 January. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

29 December-4 January 2022 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 29 December 2021 to 4 January 2022 along with very low and persistent seismicity. Satellite images acquired on 29 December 2021 and 1 January 2022 showed that the lava flows on the W flanks had advanced. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

22 December-28 December 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 21-28 December with advancing lava flows on the N, W, and S flanks. Very low seismicity persisted. Elevated surface temperatures at the summit were detected overnight during 21-24 and 26-27 December; weather clouds prevented observations during 25-26 December. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

15 December-21 December 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 15-19 December and very low seismicity persisted. A radar image acquired during 14-15 December showed a growing flow field with lava lobes advancing down the N, W, and S flanks. Elevated surface temperatures at the summit were detected overnight during 15-16 and 18-19 December. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

8 December-14 December 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 8-14 December and very low seismicity persisted. Elevated surface temperatures at the summit, that were sometimes intense, were detected overnight during 10-11 and 13-14 December. A radar image acquired during 12-13 December showed a growing flow field. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

1 December-7 December 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 1-7 December. Elevated surface temperatures at the summit were periodically detected through the week. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

24 November-30 November 2021 Cite this Report

According to AVO satellite images acquired on 23 November showed that lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued, though at a low rate. Lava continued to fill the summit crater and the flows on the flanks advanced short distances. During 24-30 November seismicity remained slightly above background levels. Elevated surface temperatures were periodically detected. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

17 November-23 November 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion at Great Sitkin had slowed or paused based on a 17 November satellite image that showed no advancement of the lava flows since 10 November. Seismicity remained elevated during 17-23 November and elevated surface temperatures were visible in occasionally clear satellite images. Steam emissions were sometimes visible in webcam images. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

10 November-16 November 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 10-16 November. Elevated surface temperatures were visible in clear satellite images during 11 and 15-16 November. Two days later effusion was confirmed in satellite images; the N lava flow had not progressed but the W and S flank flows had advanced to 680 and 650 m, respectively. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

3 November-9 November 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava flows at Great Sitkin were approximately 680 m long on the W flank, 560 m long on the S flank, and 90 m long on the N flank by 30 October based on satellite images. Lava effusion probably continued during 3-9 November, though weather clouds prevented visual confirmation. Elevated surface temperatures were occasionally detected in satellite images during 2-3 and 5-6 November. Seismicity was low overall, though slightly increased during 6-7 November. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

27 October-2 November 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava flows on Great Sitkin’s S and W flanks were 600 m long by 27 October based on satellite images, and lava effusion likely continued during 27 October-2 November. Seismicity remained elevated and was characterized by small earthquakes consistent with ongoing lava flows. Elevated surface temperatures were occasionally detected in satellite images. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

20 October-26 October 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 20-26 October. Lava advanced down the S and W flanks and were 500 m long by 20 October based on satellite images. Geophysical and web camera data streams returned back online during 22-23 October; seismicity remained slightly elevated and no explosive activity was recorded in both seismic and infrasound data through 26 October. Elevated surface temperatures were visible in satellite images during 25-26 October. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

13 October-19 October 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 13-19 October. Seismicity remained elevated and was characterized by small earthquakes consistent with lava effusion, though an outage affected geophysical data streams during 16-18 October. Satellite images acquired on 11 October showed that lava filled more than half of the summit crater, flowing onto the S and W flanks, and had recently reached the N crater rim. Lava traveled 330 m down the S flank, 350 m down the W flank, descended small valleys, and in some areas, advanced over snow and ice. Blocks that had detached from the end of the W flow descended 450 m. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

29 September-5 October 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 29 September-5 October. Seismicity remained elevated and was characterized by small earthquakes consistent with lava effusion. Elevated surface temperatures were detected in satellite images. By 3 October the dome had grown to 1,200 m E-W and 1,000 m N-S. Lava flows that continued to advance down the S and SW flanks were about 300-350 m long. The SW lobe was descending two drainages and produced hot avalanches that traveled 450 m downslope on top of a snow field. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

22 September-28 September 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 22-28 September, though weather clouds sometimes prevented webcam and satellite views. Seismicity remained elevated and was characterized by small earthquakes consistent with lava effusion. By 24 September the dome had overtopped the S and W crater rims and flowed 305 m down the S flank and 195 m down the W flank. The dome was about 25 m thick and had grown to 1,170 m E to W and 925 m N to S in dimension. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

15 September-21 September 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 15-21 September, though weather clouds often prevented webcam and satellite views. Seismicity remained elevated and was characterized by small earthquakes consistent with lava effusion. A radar image from 16 September indicated that the lava dome had grown to 1,130 m E-W and 910 m N-S, and was about 30 m thick. The edges of the dome touched the S and W rims of the crater. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite data during 20-21 September. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

8 September-14 September 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that lava effusion continued at Great Sitkin during 7-14 September, though weather clouds often prevented webcam and satellite views. Seismicity remained elevated and was characterized by small earthquakes consistent with lava effusion. A radar image from 9 September indicated that the lava dome had grown to 1,100 m E to W and 860 m N to S, and was 25-30 m thick. Lava began to advance though a gap in the S rim of the summit crater. Elevated surface temperatures were visible in satellite data on 14 September. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

1 September-7 September 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that elevated surface temperatures at Great Sitkin and daily small earthquakes were detected during 31 August-7 September, consistent with the growing lava dome. Gas plumes were observed almost daily in satellite data. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

25 August-31 August 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the lava dome at Great Sitkin continued to grow, reaching 880 m in diameter by 25 August and 1,090 m during 28-29 August. Elevated surface temperatures and small earthquakes were detected during 25-31 August, consistent with the growing dome. Daily steam-and-gas plumes were observed in satellite data and by local observers. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

18 August-24 August 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the lava dome at Great Sitkin remained active during 17-24 August; satellite imagery showed changes from a diameter of 800 m on 17 August to 850-860 m throughout 18-21 August. Elevated surface temperatures and daily small earthquakes were consistent with an active dome. Gas-and-steam plumes were visible to local ground observers and in satellite imagery during 20-22 and 24 August. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

11 August-17 August 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that the lava dome at Great Sitkin continued to be active, growing in diameter from 250 m on 6 August, to 380 m three days later, and to 700 m by 16 August. Steam-and-gas plumes were periodically observed in webcam images, in satellite data, and by observers on the ground during 11-17 August. Elevated surface temperatures and small earthquakes detected daily were consistent with the growing dome. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

4 August-10 August 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that unrest continued at Great Sitkin during 4-10 August with elevated seismicity, elevated surface temperatures, and explosions associated with a growing lava dome. Numerous earthquakes and small explosions were recorded on local infrasound and seismic stations during 4-5 August. During the morning of 5 August observers reported possible low-level lava fountaining from the active vent; the activity was also visible from Adak Island. Throughout the same day a volcanic plume comprised mostly of gas and steam (and possibly ash) was visible in webcam images rising to 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. By 6 August the lava dome had grown to 250 m in diameter and had an approximate volume of about 1 million cubic meters. AVO noted that most of the crater was full of lava erupted in 1974 and that the current lava covered only 4-5 percent of the total summit crater area. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 6-10 August, though weather clouds mostly prevented satellite and webcam views. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

28 July-3 August 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that unrest continued at Great Sitkin during 28 July-3 August. Seismicity remained elevated and a small swarm was recorded during 1-2 August. Elevated surface temperatures and a north-drifting steam plume were identified in satellite images during 27-28 July. Minor steam emissions were visible during 31 July-3 August. The circular lava dome in the crater had grown to 180 m in diameter based on measurements taken using a 3 August satellite image. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

21 July-27 July 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that a satellite image of Great Sitkin acquired at 0932 on 22 July showed a small area of uplift, about 50 m in diameter, and elevated surface temperatures associated with the feature. These observations suggested magma rising near the surface, prompting AVO to raise the Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level to Orange and Watch, respectively. Small earthquakes were recorded during 23-25 July. A 26 July satellite image confirmed that the feature was a lava dome, and that it had grown to 130 m in diameter. Seismic data suggested that the dome probably emerged sometime during 14-22 July.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

26 May-1 June 2021 Cite this Report

On 27 May AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin was low following a 25 May explosion, and satellite images showed minor steaming and slightly elevated surface temperatures. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level were lowered to Yellow and Advisory, respectively. Seismicity remained low through 1 June; moderately elevated surface temperatures were detected during 29-30 May.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

19 May-25 May 2021 Cite this Report

An increase in local earthquake activity at Great Sitkin during 24-25 May prompted AVO to raise the Aviation Color Code to Orange and the Volcano Alert Level to Watch on 25 May. An explosive eruption began later that day at 2104; the Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level were raised to Red/Warning, respectively. The explosions lasted for 1-2 minutes and produced an ash plume rising to 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. that was observed by local mariners. Witnesses 42 km away heard “a very loud explosion.” After the explosive period seismicity decreased and satellite image images showed a detached plume drifting E. Around mid-morning on 26 May AVO lowered the Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level to Orange/ Watch, respectively.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

12 May-18 May 2021 Cite this Report

AVO reported that elevated surface temperatures at Great Sitkin had been identified in satellite images since January and had been increasing in frequency during the previous two months. A minor increase in seismicity began to be recorded on 9 May and volcanic gas emissions increased on 10 May. AVO raised the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory on 12 May.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

21 October-27 October 2020 Cite this Report

AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin had decreased during the previous several months and had returned to background levels by 21 October. Additionally, eruptive activity or unusual surface temperatures had not been observed in clear satellite images. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Green and the Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Normal.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

26 February-3 March 2020 Cite this Report

AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin had increased during the previous month and by 26 February was above background levels; the Aviation Color Code was raised to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level was raised to Advisory. No eruptive activity was evident in geophysical or satellite data.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

10 July-16 July 2019 Cite this Report

On 15 July AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin had decreased to background levels during the past few weeks with no evidence of eruptive activity in geophysical or satellite data. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Green and the Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Normal.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

5 June-11 June 2019 Cite this Report

AVO reported that a small steam explosion at Great Sitkin was detected in seismic data at 1318 on 7 June. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Advisory.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

29 May-4 June 2019 Cite this Report

A small steam explosion at Great Sitkin was detected in seismic data at 2140 on 1 June, prompting AVO to raise the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory. Low-level seismic activity was elevated just before and after the event.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

20 February-26 February 2019 Cite this Report

On 25 February AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin had decreased to background levels during the past month and there was no evidence of explosive activity. The Aviation Color Code was lowered to Green and the Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Normal.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

8 August-14 August 2018 Cite this Report

AVO reported that a small phreatic explosion at Great Sitkin was recorded by the seismic network at 1105 on 11 August. The event was preceded by small local earthquakes. Cloudy satellite images prevented views of the volcano during 12-14 August. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Advisory.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

27 June-3 July 2018 Cite this Report

AVO reported that after the brief explosion at Great Sitkin on 10 June seismicity gradually declined to background levels. On 27 June AVO lowered the Volcano Alert Level to Normal and the Aviation Color Code to Green.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

20 June-26 June 2018 Cite this Report

AVO reported continuing low-level unrest at Great Sitkin during 20-26 June; seismic activity remained at or near background levels. A recently analyzed satellite image acquired on 11 June, one day after short-duration explosive event was recorded, showed a minor ash deposit on the snow extending 2 km from a vent in the summit crater. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Advisory.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

13 June-19 June 2018 Cite this Report

AVO reported that satellite images captured after the short-lived steam explosion at Great Sitkin on 10 June indicated minor changes in the summit crater, characterized by possible new fumaroles in the N part of the main crater and slightly more vigorous steaming at pre-existing fumaroles. Seismicity declined to background levels during 15-16 June.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

6 June-12 June 2018 Cite this Report

Seismicity at Great Sitkin was elevated during the previous five days, though at 1139 on 10 June a seismic signal indicating a possible short-lived steam explosion prompted AVO to raise the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory. No infrasound signal associated with the event was detected, and no volcanic clouds rose about the meteorological cloud deck at 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

17 January-23 January 2018 Cite this Report

On 18 January AVO reported that seismicity at Great Sitkin had declined over the past two months to near background levels. In addition, no significant activity was observed in satellite data during this time period and no steam plumes were noted. AVO lowered the Aviation Color Code and Volcano Alert Level to Green/Normal.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

29 November-5 December 2017 Cite this Report

AVO reported that during 28 November-5 December low-level unrest continued at Great Sitkin. Nothing noteworthy was identified in seismic data nor in partly cloudy to cloudy satellite images. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Advisory.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

22 November-28 November 2017 Cite this Report

Recent observations of a robust steam plume and a period of gradually increasing seismicity over several months at Great Sitkin prompted AVO to raise the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory on 22 November. On 19 November local observers photographed a light-colored vapor plume rising about 300 m above the vent and drifting 15-20 km S. A satellite image acquired on 21 November showed steam continuously jetting from a small fumarole on the W side of the 1974 lava flow within the summit crater, and at least one area where snow and ice had been melted.

Seismicity had fluctuated but increased overall since July 2016, most notably in June 2017. The seismic activity was characterized by earthquakes less than M 1, and occurred either just below the summit or just offshore the NW cost of the island, 30 km below sea level. Possible explosion signals were recorded in seismic data on 10 January and 21 July 2017, but there were no confirmed emissions.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

29 May-4 June 2002 Cite this Report

On 27 and 28 May, AVO recorded anomalous seismicity at Great Sitkin. The seismicity consisted of two periods of seismic tremor on 27 May (lasting for 20 and 55 minutes) and two earthquake swarms on 28 May (beginning at 0406 and 1328). The earthquake swarms each began with a relatively large event (ML (local magnitude) 2.2 and ML 4.3) followed by tens to hundreds of smaller aftershocks, most located 5-6 km SE of the crater at depths of 0-5 km. Both the tremor and the earthquake swarms represent significant changes from what is considered to be normal, "background" seismicity at Great Sitkin. However, aftershocks declined significantly overnight, and no tremor episodes were detected after the 27th. There were neither signs of surface volcanic activity on satellite imagery nor ground-level reports of anomalous activity. Great Sitkin remained at Concern Color Code Green.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

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This compilation of synonyms and subsidiary features may not be comprehensive. Features are organized into four major categories: Cones, Craters, Domes, and Thermal Features. Synonyms of features appear indented below the primary name. In some cases additional feature type, elevation, or location details are provided.

Synonyms

Great Sitchin | Sitchin | Chetkin | Belaya | Bolshoi Sitkin

Basic Data Volcano Number Last Known Eruption Elevation Latitude Longitude 311120 2023 CE 1740 m / 5709 ft 52.076°N 176.13°W Volcano Types Stratovolcano Caldera Lava dome Rock Types Major Andesite / Basaltic Andesite Basalt / Picro-Basalt Minor Trachyte / Trachydacite Tectonic Setting Subduction zone Intermediate crust (15-25 km) Population Within 5 km Within 10 km Within 30 km Within 100 km 0 0 0 0

Geological Summary The Great Sitkin volcano forms much of the northern side of Great Sitkin Island. A younger parasitic volcano capped by a small, 0.8 x 1.2 km ice-filled summit caldera was constructed within a large late-Pleistocene or early Holocene scarp formed by massive edifice failure that truncated an ancestral volcano and produced a submarine debris avalanche. Deposits from this and an older debris avalanche from a source to the south cover a broad area of the ocean floor north of the volcano. The summit lies along the eastern rim of the younger collapse scarp. Deposits from an earlier caldera-forming eruption of unknown age cover the flanks of the island to a depth up to 6 m. The small younger caldera was partially filled by lava domes emplaced in 1945 and 1974, and five small older flank lava domes, two of which lie on the coastline, were constructed along northwest- and NNW-trending lines. Hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles occur near the head of Big Fox Creek, south of the volcano. Historical eruptions have been recorded since the late-19th century. This volcano is located within the Aleutian Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve property. References The following references have all been used during the compilation of data for this volcano, it is not a comprehensive bibliography. Coats R R, 1950. Volcanic activity in the Aleutian Arc. U S Geol Surv Bull, 974-B: 35-47. Coombs M L, White S M, Scholl D W, 2007. Massive edifice failure at Aleutian arc volcanoes. Earth Planet Sci Lett, 256: 403-418. Henning R A, Rosenthal C H, Olds B, Reading E (eds), 1976. Alaska's volcanoes, northern link in the ring of fire. Alaska Geog, 4: 1-88. IAVCEI, 1973-80. Post-Miocene Volcanoes of the World. IAVCEI Data Sheets, Rome: Internatl Assoc Volc Chemistry Earth's Interior. Keller F, Meuschke J L, Alldredge L R, 1954. Aeromagnetic surveys in the Aleutian, Marshall, and Bermuda Islands. Eos, Trans Amer Geophys Union, 35: 558-572. Miller T P, McGimsey R G, Richter D H, Riehle J R, Nye C J, Yount M E, Dumoulin J A, 1998. Catalogue of the historically active volcanoes of Alaska. U S Geol Surv Open-File Rpt, 98-582: 1-104. Montanaro C, Beget J, 2011. Volcano collapse along the Aleutian Ridge (western Aleutian Arc). Nat Hazards Earth Syst Sci 11: 715-730. https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-11-715-2011 Motyka R J, Liss S A, Nye C J, Moorman M A, 1993. Geothermal resources of the Aleutian arc. Alaska Div Geol Geophys Surv, Prof Rpt, no 114, 17 p and 4 map sheets. Myers J D, 1994. The Geology, Geochemistry and Petrology of the recent Magmatic Phase of the Central and Western Aleutian Arc. Unpublished manuscript, unpaginated. Romick J D, Kay S M, Kay R W, 1992. The influence of amphibole fractionation on the evolution of calc-alkaline andesite and dacite tephra from the central Aleutians, Alaska. Contr Mineral Petr 112: 101-118. Simons F S, Mathewson D E, 1955. Geology of Great Sitkin Island, Alaska. U S Geol Surv Bull, 1028-B: 29-32. Smith R L, Shaw H R, Luedke R G, Russell S L, 1978. Comprehensive tables giving physical data and thermal energy estimates for young igneous systems of the United States. U S Geol Surv Open-File Rpt, 78-925: 1-25.

Eruptive History

There is data available for 9 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

Deformation History

There is no Deformation History data available for Great Sitkin.

Emission History

There is no Emissions History data available for Great Sitkin.

Photo Gallery

Great Sitkin in the Andreanof Islands is seen here from Finger Bay on Adak Island. The edifice was constructed within a caldera, part of which forms the high snow-covered peak to the right. The post-caldera cone contains a 0.8 x 1.2 km ice-filled summit crater. The rim forms the irregular summit on the left horizon. A lava dome 400-600 m wide was emplaced through a glacier in 1945.

Photo by Fred Zeillemaker, 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, courtesy of Alaska Volcano Observatory). This September 1946 photo of Great Sitkin from the E rim of the summit crater shows a plume rising above a lava dome emplaced in the crater in March 1945. The fissures in the ice were produced as the dome grew through the summit glacier.

Photo courtesy of U.S. Geological Survey (published in USGS Bulletin 1028-B).

GVP Map Holdings

The maps shown below have been scanned from the GVP map archives and include the volcano on this page. Clicking on the small images will load the full 300 dpi map. Very small-scale maps (such as world maps) are not included. The maps database originated over 30 years ago, but was only recently updated and connected to our main database. We welcome users to tell us if they see incorrect information or other problems with the maps; please use the Contact GVP link at the bottom of the page to send us email.

Title: Atka Publisher: US Geological Survey Country: United States Year: 1982 Series: Radar Image Mosaic Map Type: Photo (Radar) Scale: 1:250,000
Title: Magnetic Map of N Pacific Ocean Publisher: US Department of Commerce, NOAA National Ocean Service Country: United States Year: 1973 Series: Seamap Map Type: Geophysical (Magnetic) Scale: 1:1,000,000
Title: Gravity Map of N Pacific Ocean Publisher: US Department of Commerce, NOAA National Ocean Service Country: United States Year: 1973 Series: Seamap Map Type: Geophysical (Gravity) Scale: 1:1,000,000
Title: Adak Publisher: US Geological Survey Country: United States Year: 1957 Series: AK Topo 250 Map Type: Topographic Scale: 1:250,000
Title: Atka Publisher: US Geological Survey Country: United States Year: 1952 Series: AK Recon Topo 250 Map Type: Topographic Scale: 1:250,000

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

There are no samples for Great Sitkin in the Smithsonian's NMNH Department of Mineral Sciences Rock and Ore collection.

External Sites

Alaska Volcano Observatory (Link to Great Sitkin)	The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) is a joint program of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAFGI), and the State of Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys (ADGGS). AVO was formed in 1988, and uses federal, state, and university resources to monitor and study Alaska's hazardous volcanoes, to predict and record eruptive activity, and to mitigate volcanic hazards to life and property.
WOVOdat    Single Volcano View    Temporal Evolution of Unrest    Side by Side Volcanoes	WOVOdat is a database of volcanic unrest; instrumentally and visually recorded changes in seismicity, ground deformation, gas emission, and other parameters from their normal baselines. It is sponsored by the World Organization of Volcano Observatories (WOVO) and presently hosted at the Earth Observatory of Singapore. GVMID Data on Volcano Monitoring Infrastructure The Global Volcano Monitoring Infrastructure Database GVMID, is aimed at documenting and improving capabilities of volcano monitoring from the ground and space. GVMID should provide a snapshot and baseline view of the techniques and instrumentation that are in place at various volcanoes, which can be use by volcano observatories as reference to setup new monitoring system or improving networks at a specific volcano. These data will allow identification of what monitoring gaps exist, which can be then targeted by remote sensing infrastructure and future instrument deployments.
Volcanic Hazard Maps	The IAVCEI Commission on Volcanic Hazards and Risk has a Volcanic Hazard Maps database designed to serve as a resource for hazard mappers (or other interested parties) to explore how common issues in hazard map development have been addressed at different volcanoes, in different countries, for different hazards, and for different intended audiences. In addition to the comprehensive, searchable Volcanic Hazard Maps Database, this website contains information about diversity of volcanic hazard maps, illustrated using examples from the database. This site is for educational purposes related to volcanic hazard maps. Hazard maps found on this website should not be used for emergency purposes. For the most recent, official hazard map for a particular volcano, please seek out the proper institutional authorities on the matter.
MIROVA	Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity (MIROVA) is a near real time volcanic hot-spot detection system based on the analysis of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data. In particular, MIROVA uses the Middle InfraRed Radiation (MIR), measured over target volcanoes, in order to detect, locate and measure the heat radiation sourced from volcanic activity.
MODVOLC Thermal Alerts	Using infrared satellite Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, scientists at the Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology, University of Hawai'i, developed an automated system called MODVOLC to map thermal hot-spots in near real time. For each MODIS image, the algorithm automatically scans each 1 km pixel within it to check for high-temperature hot-spots. When one is found the date, time, location, and intensity are recorded. MODIS looks at every square km of the Earth every 48 hours, once during the day and once during the night, and the presence of two MODIS sensors in space allows at least four hot-spot observations every two days. Each day updated global maps are compiled to display the locations of all hot spots detected in the previous 24 hours. There is a drop-down list with volcano names which allow users to 'zoom-in' and examine the distribution of hot-spots at a variety of spatial scales.
Sentinel Hub Playground Sentinel Hub EO Browser	The Sentinel Hub Playground provides a quick look at any Sentinel-2 image in any combination of the bands and enhanced with image effects; Landsat 8, DEM and MODIS are also available. Sentinel Hub is an engine for processing of petabytes of satellite data. It is opening the doors for machine learning and helping hundreds of application developers worldwide. It makes Sentinel, Landsat, and other Earth observation imagery easily accessible for browsing, visualization and analysis. Sentinel Hub is operated by Sinergise
IRIS seismic stations/networks	Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) Data Services map showing the location of seismic stations from all available networks (permanent or temporary) within a radius of 0.18° (about 20 km at mid-latitudes) from the given location of Great Sitkin. Users can customize a variety of filters and options in the left panel. Note that if there are no stations are known the map will default to show the entire world with a "No data matched request" error notice.
UNAVCO GPS/GNSS stations	Geodetic Data Services map from UNAVCO showing the location of GPS/GNSS stations from all available networks (permanent or temporary) within a radius of 20 km from the given location of Great Sitkin. Users can customize the data search based on station or network names, location, and time window. Requires Adobe Flash Player.
DECADE Data	The DECADE portal, still in the developmental stage, serves as an example of the proposed interoperability between The Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program, the Mapping Gas Emissions (MaGa) Database, and the EarthChem Geochemical Portal. The Deep Earth Carbon Degassing (DECADE) initiative seeks to use new and established technologies to determine accurate global fluxes of volcanic CO2 to the atmosphere, but installing CO2 monitoring networks on 20 of the world's 150 most actively degassing volcanoes. The group uses related laboratory-based studies (direct gas sampling and analysis, melt inclusions) to provide new data for direct degassing of deep earth carbon to the atmosphere.
Large Eruptions of Great Sitkin	Information about large Quaternary eruptions (VEI >= 4) is cataloged in the Large Magnitude Explosive Volcanic Eruptions (LaMEVE) database of the Volcano Global Risk Identification and Analysis Project (VOGRIPA).
EarthChem	EarthChem develops and maintains databases, software, and services that support the preservation, discovery, access and analysis of geochemical data, and facilitate their integration with the broad array of other available earth science parameters. EarthChem is operated by a joint team of disciplinary scientists, data scientists, data managers and information technology developers who are part of the NSF-funded data facility Integrated Earth Data Applications (IEDA). IEDA is a collaborative effort of EarthChem and the Marine Geoscience Data System (MGDS).