Multiple volcanoes across the globe are exhibiting heightened activity, prompting alerts from volcanological agencies worldwide. As of Thursday, March 19, 2026, significant unrest has been reported in Russia, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and several countries in Central and South America.
Shiveluch Volcano on the Kamchatka Peninsula continues to experience explosive activity. The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) Tokyo has issued warnings regarding a volcanic ash plume reaching an estimated altitude of 36,000 feet (11,000 meters), drifting eastward at 30 knots. Satellite imagery continuously observes the volcanic ash, with the latest data recorded at 19/1120Z.
In Japan, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reports continued unrest at Kusatsu-Shiranesan. The alert level remains at “Level 2 – Restriction on proximity to the crater” on a 5-level scale, indicating ongoing potential hazards.
The Philippines are facing eruptions from multiple volcanoes. Mayon volcano is experiencing continued eruption with VAAC Tokyo reporting activity at flight level 090. Kanlaon volcano remains at a “2 – Moderate Level of Volcanic Unrest,” while Taal volcano is at a “1 – Low-Level Unrest.” Lava effusion continues from the summit crater of Mayon, with lava flows extending 3.8 km in the Basud Gully, 3.2 km in the Bonga Gully, and 1.3 km in the Mi-isi Gully. Sulfur dioxide emissions from Mayon averaged 4,352 tonnes per day on March 18, 2026.
Indonesia is also experiencing widespread volcanic activity. Ibu volcano is at “Level 2 – Alert,” while Tambora, Lewotobi, Lewotolo, Merapi, Semeru, Marapi, and Dukono are all at “Level 2 – Alert” or “Level 3 – Standby.” The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard/Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (CVGHM/PVMBG) continues to monitor these sites.
Further afield, Aoba volcano in Vanuatu has prompted a volcanic ash advisory, while Sangay in Ecuador continues to exhibit explosive activity with ash plumes reaching 21,000 feet (6,400 meters). Reventador in Ecuador is also experiencing ongoing eruption, with the alert level at “3 – Orange.” Sabancaya in Peru remains at an “Orange” alert level, indicating continued eruption.
In Central America, Popocatépetl in Mexico remains at “Yellow Alert – Phase 2,” with reports of gas and vapor plumes. Fuego in Guatemala continues to erupt, with explosions occurring at a rate of up to 11 per hour, generating ash fall in surrounding communities.
Piton de la Fournaise on La Réunion island continues its effusive eruption, with a lava delta extending 85 meters into the ocean. Authorities are warning of the health hazards associated with the release of hydrochloric acid gas from the interaction of lava and seawater.
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