Global Volcanic Unrest: Updates on Shiveluch, Taal, and More

Volcanic activity remains elevated across the globe, with ongoing eruptions and unrest reported in Russia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Mexico, Guatemala, Ecuador, and Peru as of March 19, 2026. Aviation alerts are in effect for several volcanoes, posing potential risks to air travel. This report provides a summary of the latest developments.

Shiveluch Volcano, Russia: Continuing Explosive Activity

The Shiveluch volcano in Kamchatka, Russia, continues to exhibit explosive activity. The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) Tokyo has warned of a volcanic ash plume reaching an estimated altitude of 36,000 feet (11,000 meters) or flight level 360, moving at 30 knots in an easterly direction. Volcanic Ash Advisory was issued on March 19, 2026.

Philippines: Mayon, Taal, and Canlaon Eruptions

Several volcanoes in the Philippines are currently erupting. Mayon volcano continues to exhibit lava effusion, with lava flows extending up to 3.8 km in the Basud Gully, 3.2 km in the Bonga Gully, and 1.3 km in the Mi-isi Gully. Short-lived lava fountaining and minor Strombolian activity have too been observed. The alert level remains at “3 – Increased Tendency Towards Hazardous Eruption.”

Taal volcano is also experiencing continued eruption, with the alert level at “1 – Low-Level Unrest.” Canlaon volcano remains at “2 – Moderate Level of Volcanic Unrest,” with ongoing eruption activity.

Indonesia: Multiple Volcanoes on Alert

Indonesia, situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, is experiencing unrest at multiple volcanoes. Ibu volcano remains at “Level 2 – Alert,” while Tambora, Lewotobi, Lewotolo, Merapi, Semeru, Dukono, and Marapi are all at “Level 2 – Alert” or “Level 3 – Standby.” These alert levels indicate varying degrees of volcanic activity and potential hazards.

Other Notable Volcanic Activity

• Aoba (Vanuatu): Explosive activity continues.
• Popocatépetl (Mexico): The volcano continues to erupt, with gas and vapor plumes reported. The alert level is “Yellow Alert – Phase 2.”
• Fuego (Guatemala): Explosions are occurring at a rate of up to 11 per hour, with plumes rising to 2,418 feet above the vent. Ash fall has been reported in nearby communities.
• Sangay (Ecuador): Explosive activity continues, with a volcanic ash plume reaching an altitude of 21,000 feet (6,400 meters). The alert level is “2 – Yellow.”
• Reventador (Ecuador): Explosive activity continues, with a volcanic ash plume reaching an altitude of 15,000 feet (4,600 meters). The alert level is “3 – Orange.”
• Sabancaya (Peru): The eruption continues, with the alert level at “Orange.”
• Piton de la Fournaise (La Réunion): An effusive eruption continues, with a lava delta extending into the ocean.

Ongoing Monitoring and Aviation Safety

Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAACs) worldwide are continuously monitoring volcanic activity and issuing advisories to ensure aviation safety. Volcanic ash can pose a significant hazard to aircraft engines, leading to potential disruptions to air travel.