The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: March 8 – 14, 2023
New activity/unrest was reported for 5 volcanoes from March 8 to 14, 2023. During the same period, ongoing activity was reported for 15 volcanoes.
Eruption at Nyamulagira volcano – 4.5 km (15 000 feet) a.s.l. plume, Aviation Color Code Red, DR Congo
The Goma Volcanic Observatory (OVG) has reported an eruption of the Nyamulagira volcano, also known as Nyamuragira, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A plume was observed rising 1 500 m (4 900 feet) above the summit, reaching an altitude of 4.5 km (15 000 feet) above sea level.
Major eruption at Merapi volcano produces very large pyroclastic flow, Indonesia
A powerful eruption took place at Indonesia’s Merapi volcano at 05:12 UTC on March 11, 2023, producing massive pyroclastic flow near populated areas and blanketing nearby villages in ash. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The Alert Level remains at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public is warned to stay 3 – 7 km (1.8 – 4.3 miles) away from the summit based on location.
Small earthquake swarm at Katla volcano, Iceland
A small earthquake swarm started at Katla volcano, beneath the Myrdalsjökull icecap in Iceland, on March 9, 2023. The last confirmed eruption at this volcano took place in 1918 (VEI 4).
AVO raises alert level for Tanaga and Takawangha volcanoes amid increased seismic activity, Alaska
Active seismic activity beneath the Tanaga and Takawangha volcanoes on Tanaga Island, Alaska, approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) apart, has increased the potential for eruption, according to official reports from the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO).
Significant amount of gas and steam at White Island volcano, New Zealand
Active vents at White Island/Whakaari volcano in New Zealand are emitting substantial steam and gas plumes. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at 2 and the Aviation Color Code at Yellow.
The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: March 1 – 7, 2023
New activity/unrest was reported for 5 volcanoes from March 1 – 7, 2023. During the same period, ongoing activity was reported for 16 volcanoes.
Increased seismicity beneath Tanaga volcano, Alaska
In response to increased seismicity beneath the Tanaga volcano detected on March 6 and 7, 2023, the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) raised the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory.
M4.4 earthquake beneath Lake Taupo, more than 20 aftershocks, New Zealand
An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.4 struck beneath Lake Taupō, New Zealand on March 5, 2023, followed by more than 20 aftershocks. The Volcanic Alert Level remains at 1, which denotes minor volcanic unrest, and the Aviation Color Code is Green. Although there is no immediate risk, the potential for eruption hazards cannot be entirely ruled out, and it is essential that visitors and residents follow the recommended safety guidelines.
Increased soil temperature detected at Machín volcano, Colombia
The Colombian Geological Service (SGC) found changes in vegetation and increased soil temperature during their inspection of the Cerro Machín volcano. The last eruption at this volcano took place in 1180 CE ± 150 years.
