Global Volcanic Unrest: A Snapshot of February 11, 2026
A significant number of volcanoes around the globe are currently exhibiting signs of unrest, ranging from ongoing eruptions to heightened alert levels. As of February 11, 2026, monitoring agencies are closely watching activity across Indonesia, the Philippines, Ecuador, Guatemala, and beyond. This report provides an overview of the current situation and potential implications.
Indonesia: A Hotspot of Volcanic Activity
Indonesia, situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, continues to experience frequent volcanic activity. Several volcanoes are currently erupting or under alert. Ibu volcano is exhibiting explosions and gas plumes, although Dukono, Karangetang, Raung, and Sangeang Api remain at alert level 2. Merapi continues to produce pyroclastic flows, and Semeru is experiencing frequent explosions and ashfall. Activity is too reported at Iliwerung, Lokon-Empung, and Tangkubanparahu, with varying alert levels.
Philippines: Ongoing Eruptions and Elevated Risk
The Philippines is also heavily impacted by volcanic activity. Canlaon volcano continues to erupt, while Taal and Mayon are also exhibiting ongoing eruptions. The alert levels for these volcanoes reflect the ongoing hazards.
Ecuador and Guatemala: Explosive Activity and Ashfall
In Ecuador, Sangay volcano is experiencing ongoing eruptions with ash plumes. Reventador is also active, with volcanic ash advisories issued. Guatemala’s Fuego volcano continues to erupt, with explosions and ashfall impacting nearby communities. Santiaguito is also exhibiting ongoing activity, including explosions and pyroclastic flows.
Costa Rica and the United States: Monitoring and Alert Levels
Costa Rica’s Turrialba, Rincón de la Vieja, and Poás volcanoes are under continued monitoring, with alert levels at “Warning.” In the United States, Kilauea in Hawaii has paused its eruptive activity, but remains under a “Watch” alert level. Great Sitkin in the Aleutian Islands continues to erupt with lava flows.
Global Monitoring and Alert Systems
Various agencies are responsible for monitoring volcanic activity worldwide. These include the Instituto Geográfico Nacional (IGN) in Spain, the Instituto Volcanológico de Canarias (INVOLCAN), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard/Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (CVGHM/PVMBG) in Indonesia, the United States Geological Survey (USGS), and the Instituto Nacional de Sismología, Vulcanología, Meteorología e Hidrología (INSIVUMEH) in Guatemala. Each agency utilizes a different alert level system, ranging from normal to critical, to communicate the level of risk to the public.
Understanding Volcanic Alert Levels
Volcanic alert levels are crucial for public safety. They indicate the potential for an eruption and the associated hazards. Alert levels typically range from:
- Normal/Green: Volcano is in a quiet state.
- Advisory/Yellow: Volcano is exhibiting signs of unrest, but an eruption is not imminent.
- Watch/Orange: Volcano is exhibiting heightened unrest, and an eruption is possible.
- Warning/Red: An eruption is underway or imminent.
The Importance of Volcanic Ash Advisories
Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAACs) play a critical role in aviation safety. They issue advisories when volcanic ash is detected in the atmosphere, as ash can damage aircraft engines. VAACs monitor ash plumes and provide information to airlines to help them avoid affected areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean when a volcano is at “alert level 2”?
A: It means the volcano is exhibiting signs of unrest, but an eruption is not currently happening or expected in the immediate future. Monitoring is increased.
Q: Why are so many volcanoes erupting right now?
A: Volcanic activity fluctuates naturally. The Pacific Ring of Fire is a particularly active zone, and multiple volcanoes can be erupting simultaneously.
Q: How can I stay informed about volcanic activity?
A: Check the websites of the relevant monitoring agencies (listed above) and follow local news and emergency management agencies.
Q: Is volcanic ash dangerous?
A: Yes, volcanic ash can be hazardous to health, especially for people with respiratory problems. It can also damage infrastructure and disrupt transportation.
Did you know? The alert level for Tenerife, Spain, remains at “Yellow – Alert” as of February 11, 2026, indicating continued unrest.
Pro Tip: If you live near a volcano, familiarize yourself with your local evacuation plan and prepare an emergency kit.
Stay informed about volcanic activity and heed the advice of local authorities. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
Explore More: Visit Volcano Discovery for detailed information on volcanoes worldwide.
