The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: March 29 – April 4, 2023
New activity/unrest was reported for 5 volcanoes from March 29 – April 4, 2023. During the same period, ongoing activity was reported for 22 volcanoes.
Freezing rain hits Ontario and Quebec, leaving more than 2.5 million people without power, Canada
A sprawling Colorado low brought freezing rain and thunderstorms to Ontario and Quebec on April 5, 2023, causing power outages for more than 1 million customers or about 2.5 million people. Unfortunately, it’s expected that some of the residents will remain without power through the weekend.
After record snowfall, California braces for melting snowpack and flood risks
After three months of heavy rain and record snow, California is now facing the risk of floods due to melting snowpacks, as temperatures rise in the Central Valley and Sierra Nevada regions.
Tourists defy weather warnings, resulting in deadly avalanche in Northeast India
At least seven tourists have died, 20 were injured and many others were trapped after a major avalanche struck near a mountain pass in the northeast Indian state of Sikkim at 06:00 UTC on April 4, 2023. The incident occurred near the Nathu La mountain pass, a popular tourist destination on India’s border with China. This is the road that connects Gangtok to the Nathu La Pass and the nearby Changu Lake – another major tourist attraction.
Historic Tulare Lake back to life after nearly a century, California
Once the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, Tulare Lake in California’s San Joaquin Valley has reemerged due to heavy rains and snow in the first three months of 2023.
Large sinkhole in Daisetta starts growing 15 years after appearing, Texas
The Daisetta sinkhole, dormant for 15 years, started growing again on April 2, 2023, putting residents and officials on alert. The town, with a population of less than 1 000 people, is located approximately 89 km (55 miles) northeast of Houston. There are about 100 homes located in the immediate area.
Strong and shallow M6.3 earthquake hits south of Panama
A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.3 hit south of Panama at 22:18 UTC on April 4, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 12 km (7.4 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.5 at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles).
Increased seismic activity prompts Yellow alert for Laguna del Maule volcanic complex, Chile
Due to an increase in seismicity detected since March 30, 2023, Chilean authorities raised the Alert Level for Laguna del Maule volcanic complex from Green to Yellow on April 3, 2023.
Eruption at Yasur volcano, Vanuatu
A small eruption took place at Vanuatu’s Yasur volcano at 06:09 UTC on April 4, 2023. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at Level 2 since October 28, 2016.
Homes collapsing under record snowfall in Park City, Utah
Park City, Utah, has experienced record-breaking snowfall this winter, causing significant damage to homes and buildings. The weight of the snow has caused roofs to collapse, leaving many residents displaced and seeking temporary shelter.
