Global Volcanic Activity Update: Eruptions Continue at Shiveluch, Mayon, and More

March 17, 2026 – Volcanic activity remains elevated across several regions globally, with ongoing eruptions and ash plumes impacting aviation and local communities. Monitoring efforts are focused on volcanoes in Kamchatka, the Philippines, Indonesia, and other areas, as reported by Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAACs) worldwide.

Shiveluch Volcano (Kamchatka, Russia) – Explosive Activity Persists

Explosive activity continues at Shiveluch volcano in Kamchatka, Russia. The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) Tokyo has issued warnings regarding a volcanic ash plume reaching an estimated altitude of 34,000 feet (10,400 meters), or flight level 340. The plume is moving eastward at 60 knots. Volcanodiscovery.com provides ongoing updates on this situation.

Mayon Volcano (Luzon Island, Philippines) – Eruption Reported

Mayon volcano on Luzon Island, Philippines, experienced an eruption on March 16, 2026. The VAAC Tokyo reported the eruption at 20260316/1215Z, with ash extending westward. VAAC reports detail the ongoing activity.

Ibu Volcano (Halmahera, Indonesia) – Continued Explosive Activity

Ibu volcano in Halmahera, Indonesia, continues to exhibit explosive activity. The VAAC Darwin has warned of a volcanic ash plume rising to an estimated 7,000 feet (2,100 meters), or flight level 070, and moving northeast at 05 knots. The VAAC report indicates the plume was last reported at 16/0041Z.

Lewotolo Volcano (Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia) – Ongoing Explosions

Lewotolo volcano in the Lesser Sunda Islands is also experiencing continued explosive activity. VAAC Darwin reports a volcanic ash plume reaching 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), or flight level 060, moving northeast at 15 knots. The last report was issued on March 16, 2026.

Additional Volcanic Activity

• Aoba (Vanuatu): Explosive activity continues, with a volcanic ash plume reaching 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) and moving east at 10 knots.
• Fuego (Guatemala): Occasional volcanic ash emissions are being reported.
• Sangay (Ecuador): Explosive activity continues, with a volcanic ash plume reaching 22,000 feet (6,700 meters) and moving southeast at 10 knots.
• Reventador (Ecuador): Possible volcanic ash emissions are being monitored.
• Piton de la Fournaise (La Réunion): An effusive eruption continues, with lava flows reaching the ocean. A thermal anomaly of 1259 MW was detected on March 16, 2026. Archyde.com reports this is the first time lava has reached the ocean in two decades.

Monitoring and Aviation Safety

Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAACs) play a crucial role in monitoring volcanic activity and providing timely information to the aviation industry. Ash plumes can pose a significant hazard to aircraft engines, and VAAC warnings help airlines reroute flights to avoid affected areas. NOAA’s OSPO provides current volcanic ash advisories.