The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: March 12-18, 2026
New activity/unrest was reported for 7 volcanoes from March 12 to 18, 2026. During the same period, ongoing activity was reported for 20 volcanoes.
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Strong and shallow M6.1 earthquake hits Vanuatu
A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.1 hit 100 km (62.5 miles) WNW of Isangel, Vanuatu, at 02:30 UTC on March 20, 2026. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). This is the second M6+ earthquake of the day, following M6.6 in the South Shetland Islands at 00:22 UTC.
Strong and shallow M6.6 earthquake hits South Shetland Islands
A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.6 hit the South Shetland Islands at 00:22 UTC on March 20, 2026. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 4.9 km (3 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth.
Long-duration atmospheric river raises flood risk in western Washington through March 21
A multi-day atmospheric river event affecting western Washington, United States, since March 15, 2026, is elevating flood potential as cumulative rainfall and snowmelt impact the regional river basins. Prolonged precipitation and high snow levels are leading to rising rivers, with flood risk expected to persist through early March 21.
Earth-directed CME triggers G2 geomagnetic storm watch, aurora possible as low as New York
An Earth-directed coronal mass ejection (CME) produced by an M2.7 solar flare on March 16, 2026, is expected to impact Earth on March 19, producing G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storming and aurora at mid-latitudes.
Landslide above Crosia homes triggers evacuations as floods impact Ionian coast of Cosenza, Italy
A landslide struck above residential areas in Crosia, Province of Cosenza, Italy, on March 17, 2026, as severe weather caused the Trionto and Fiumarella rivers to overflow, triggering flooding and emergency evacuations.
Bright daytime meteor produces sonic boom over Pennsylvania and Ohio on March 17
A bright daylight meteor accompanied by a loud boom was observed over parts of Pennsylvania and Ohio at around 13:01 UTC (09:01 local time) on March 17, 2026. The event was detected by satellite-based lightning mapping systems and reported widely by residents. No confirmed impacts have been reported.
Prolonged atmospheric river brings Flood Watch and high avalanche danger to British Columbia as some areas face up to 400 mm (15.7 inches) of rain
A prolonged atmospheric river is affecting British Columbia this week, with Flood Watch, multiple rainfall warnings, and Special Weather Statements in effect across parts of the province. Some coastal areas could receive up to 400 mm (15.7 inches) of rain, while heavy rain on existing snowpack is increasing the risk of flooding, washouts, landslides and dangerous avalanche conditions.
Dust storm triggers multi-vehicle crash on U.S. 287 in northern Texas
A multi-vehicle crash occurred on U.S. Highway 287 near Quanah in Hardeman County, northern Texas, on March 15, after strong winds generated blowing dust that rapidly reduced visibility and created dangerous driving conditions. Video footage recorded in the area shows dense dust moving across the highway as vehicles traveled through the corridor. Visibility deteriorated rapidly…
Long-duration fireball streaks across western Turkey skies, possibly an Earth-grazing meteor
A bright fireball was observed over western Turkey on March 15, 2026, with residents across Uşak Province reporting a slow-moving luminous object crossing the night sky for more than 20 seconds, suggesting a likely rare Earth-grazing meteor skimming the upper atmosphere.
