Global Volcanic Activity Update: Stromboli and Beyond – February 28, 2026

Volcanic activity remains elevated across the globe, with ongoing eruptions and unrest at numerous sites. This report provides an overview of recent activity, focusing on Stromboli in Italy and updates from volcanoes in Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and other regions as of February 28, 2026.

Stromboli, Italy: Continued Eruptive Activity

Stromboli volcano, located in the Eolian Islands, Italy, continues to exhibit ongoing eruptive activity. The Instituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia-Osservatorio Etneo (INGV-Osservatorio Etneo) reported that the eruption persisted on February 27, 2026 [1]. The alert level remains at “Yellow” (level 2 on a 4-level scale), indicating a moderate level of unrest. The aviation alert level is currently at “Orange” (level 3 on a 4-level scale).

Stromboli is known for its persistent, low-level explosive activity, characterized as “strombolian” eruptions [3]. This activity typically involves the ejection of incandescent lava fragments and gas from vents within the Sciara del Fuoco, a steep-sided depression on the volcano’s northwest flank.

Ongoing Unrest in Japan

Several volcanoes in Japan continue to exhibit unrest as of February 27, 2026. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), Asamayama, Akan, Kirishima, Kikai, Yake-dake, Kusatsu-Shirane, Iwate, and Sakurajima all remain under alert. The alert level for these volcanoes is primarily “Level 2 – Restriction on proximity to the crater,” with Sakurajima at “Level 3 – Restriction on proximity to the volcano.”

Activity in the Philippines

In the Philippines, Mayon, Taal, Canlaon, and Santiaguito volcanoes are all exhibiting ongoing activity. Mayon continues to experience lava effusion and minor Strombolian activity, with the alert level at “3 – Increased Tendency Towards Hazardous Eruption.” Taal remains at “1 – Low-Level Unrest,” although Canlaon is at “2 – Moderate Level of Volcanic Unrest.” Santiaguito continues to exhibit explosive activity with ash plumes reaching significant altitudes.

Indonesian Volcanoes Remain Active

Multiple volcanoes in Indonesia are currently active. Telong, Karangetang, Raung, Ibu, Tangkubanparahu, Sangeang Api, Lewotobi, Soputan, Lewotolo, Merapi, Semeru, Marapi, Dukono, and Kerinci all show signs of unrest or ongoing eruption. Alert levels vary, with several volcanoes at “Level 2 – Alert” and Merapi and Semeru at “Level 3 – Standby.”

Other Notable Activity

Elsewhere, Kilauea in Hawaii paused its eruptive activity between February 26 and 27, 2026, remaining at a “Watch” alert level. Shishaldin and Great Sitkin in the Aleutian Islands (Alaska) also continue to exhibit unrest. In Ecuador, Sangay and Reventador are experiencing ongoing eruptions, while Sabancaya continues to produce ash plumes. Piton de la Fournaise in La Réunion is also active.

Key Takeaways

• Stromboli volcano in Italy remains at a Yellow alert level with ongoing eruptive activity.
• Numerous volcanoes in Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia are exhibiting signs of unrest or ongoing eruption.
• Volcanic activity is being closely monitored by geological agencies worldwide to mitigate potential hazards.

Volcanic activity is a dynamic process, and conditions can change rapidly. Continued monitoring and assessment by relevant authorities are crucial for ensuring public safety.