Global Volcanic Unrest: A Snapshot of February 7, 2026
Volcanic activity remains elevated across the globe, with ongoing eruptions and unrest reported in the Philippines, Russia, Indonesia, and the Americas. As of February 7, 2026, monitoring agencies are closely watching a diverse range of volcanoes, from those exhibiting explosive activity to those showing signs of increasing unrest. This report provides a detailed overview of the current situation.
Philippines: Multiple Volcanoes on Alert
The Philippines is currently experiencing significant volcanic activity. Mayon volcano continues to exhibit eruptive behavior, with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) closely monitoring the situation. Activity at Mayon is characterized by dome growth and lava effusion. Taal volcano is also under observation, currently at alert level 1, indicating a low-level of unrest. Canlaon volcano continues to erupt, maintaining an alert level of 2 – Moderate Level of Volcanic Unrest.
Russia: Sheveluch Volcano Remains Active
Sheveluch volcano in Russia continues to exhibit explosive activity. The Tokyo VAAC has issued advisories regarding volcanic ash plumes reaching up to 28,000 ft (8500 m) and moving northwest at 25 knots. Multiple advisories were issued throughout February 6th and 7th, 2026, indicating persistent activity.
Indonesia: Widespread Volcanic Activity
Indonesia, situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, is experiencing unrest at numerous volcanoes. Several volcanoes are at alert level 2, including Ibu, Karangetang, Raung, Slamet, Sangeang Api, Dukono, and Kerinci. Eruptive activity continues at Ibu, with ash plumes reaching 6,000 ft (1800 m). Marapi and Lewotobi also remain active, with ongoing eruptions and alerts.
The Americas: Activity in Alaska, Ecuador, and Central America
Volcanic activity is also being monitored in the Americas. Shishaldin in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, remains at an advisory level, even as Great Sitkin is at a watch level. In Ecuador, Sangay and Reventador are exhibiting ongoing eruptions. In Guatemala, Fuego continues to erupt, and Pacaya and Turrialba demonstrate continued unrest. Kilauea in Hawaii paused eruptive activity between February 5th and 6th, 2026, but remains at a watch level. Sabancaya in Peru is also experiencing continued eruption.
Alert Level Definitions
Understanding alert levels is crucial for assessing volcanic risk. While specific scales vary by country, generally:
- Level 0/Normal: No significant volcanic activity.
- Level 1/Advisory/Low-Level Unrest: Normal background activity; potential for escalation.
- Level 2/Alert: Increased activity; potential for hazardous eruptions.
- Level 3/Standby/Increased Tendency Towards Hazardous Eruption: Eruptions are possible; increased monitoring and preparedness.
- Level 4/Warning: Hazardous eruption is imminent or underway.
Monitoring and Forecasting Challenges
Accurate volcanic monitoring and forecasting remain significant challenges. The VAACs (Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres) play a critical role in providing timely information to aviation, as volcanic ash can pose a serious threat to aircraft engines. Monitoring relies on a combination of ground-based sensors, satellite imagery, and reports from local observers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a VAAC? A Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre provides information on volcanic ash clouds to aviation.
- What does an alert level of 2 mean? It indicates increased activity and the potential for hazardous eruptions.
- Why is Indonesia so prone to volcanic activity? Indonesia is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region of intense tectonic activity.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about volcanic activity in areas you plan to travel to. Check official sources like PHIVOLCS, USGS, and VAAC websites for the latest updates.
Explore more about volcanic activity and safety measures on Volcano Discovery and the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program.
