Low-level eruptive activity continued at Shishaldin Volcano over the past week. Frequent, small, low-frequency earthquakes and tremor were detected throughout the week. Weak explosions were observed in infrasound data on December 2, 3, and 6, when wind noise levels were low. These explosions have not been associated with any ash emissions. Weak steam emissions were observed in web camera and satellite views when the weather was clear. Weakly elevated surface temperatures were observed in satellite imagery of the summit and northeast flank of the volcano on December 2 and 3. No sulfur dioxide emissions were detected in satellite data.

Thirteen significant explosive events have occurred at Shishaldin since July 12, 2023. These events have been preceded by increases in seismicity in the hours to days before they occur. It is unknown how long this period of ongoing activity will last. However, previous eruptions of Shishaldin Volcano have lasted weeks to months with repeated cycles of eruptive activity like those seen since July.

Local seismic and infrasound sensors, web cameras, and a geodetic network monitor Shishaldin Volcano. In addition to the local monitoring network, AVO uses nearby geophysical networks, regional infrasound and lightning data, and satellite observations to detect eruptions.

Slow eruption of lava is continuing at Great Sitkin Volcano. Seismicity has been low during the past week. The volcano was obscured by clouds in satellite and webcam images for most of the week, but weakly elevated surface temperatures were observed in clearer views on December 2. The last satellite radar observations from November 30 showed continued growth of the summit lava flow.

The current lava flow at Great Sitkin Volcano began erupting in July 2021. No explosive events have occurred since a single event in May 2021.     

The volcano is monitored by local seismic, geodetic, and infrasound sensors, web cameras, regional infrasound and lightning networks, and satellite data.

Earthquake activity in the vicinity of Trident Volcano remained slightly elevated over the past week with small earthquakes observed each day within the Katmai group of volcanoes. A few deeper volcanic earthquakes and tremor episodes beneath Trident were detected on December 4, 6, and 7. No volcanic activity was observed in satellite and web camera images. 

The current period of unrest began in August 2022. Since then, most earthquakes have occurred within the shallow crust, with depths less than 4 miles (6 km) below sea level; however, deeper quakes (greater than 9 miles or 15 km depth) have been notable during much of the unrest period. Surface uplift, low-frequency earthquakes, and seismic tremor – all consistent with magmatic activity – have been observed over this extended period as well.       

Increases in seismic activity have been detected previously at Trident Volcano and other similar volcanoes and did not result in eruptions. We expect additional shallow seismicity and other signs of unrest, such as gas emissions, elevated surface temperatures, and ground movement, to precede any future eruption if one were to occur.           

Trident Volcano is monitored by local seismic sensors, web cameras, regional infrasound and lightning networks, and satellite data.