Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.2 earthquake hits the Peru-Ecuador border.
5.3 earthquake hits Easter Island.
5.2 earthquake hits Hokkaido, Japan.
5.2 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.1 earthquake hits Kepulauan Talaud, Indonesia.
5.0 earthquake hits Vanuatu.
5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits south of Alaska.
5.0 earthquake hits the southern east Pacific rise.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 09e (Nine), located approximately 1330 nm south-southwest of San Diego, is tracking westward at 05 knots.
Tropical storm 08e (Hilda), located approximately 1175 nm south of San Diego, is tracking west-northwestward at 12 knots.
Newsbytes:
India – At least 7 people have died after torrential rain in India hit Jammu and Kashmir on 28 July 2021 causing flash floods. Local officials said a “cloudburst” dumped torrential rainfall in the Hanzor area of Dachhan in Kishtwar District, Jammu region, on 28 July. The rain sent flash floods, mud, rocks and other debris crashing through the community causing widespread damage and fatalities. At least 19 residential buildings collapsed or were severely damaged. Two others were partially damaged. Farm buildings and a bridge were also damaged or destroyed.
Light Pollution Disorientates Animals
When dung beetles in South Africa are ready to roll, they pick their path with the help of the Milky Way. But our home Galaxy is becoming harder and harder to spot as light pollution brightens the night sky, The New York Times reports. Researchers tested how dung beetles responded to two types of artificial light: a single bright beacon and the dull glow a nearby city might produce. They found that both kinds disoriented the dung beetles, throwing them off their usual path, the team reports in Current Biology. When exposed to the bright light, the beetles headed toward that, and when exposed to the ambient light, they went in circles. Because many animals seem to navigate using the stars—including birds, seals, and moths—the fading of the night sky could be having similar effects on other species as well, according to the researchers.
Wildfires – Italy
Italy’s emergency services continued to battle wildfires across the country. The regions sent 34 requests for support from firefighting aircraft, the country’s civil defence authority said Thursday evening. The requests came from Calabria in the south; Lazio, where the capital Rome is located; and the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In Sicily’s Agrigento, firefighters faced a five-kilometer (3.1-mile) fire front.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever – Georgia
A 49-year-old woman from the Samtskhe-Javakheti region has died from Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), according to Georgia media.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.4 earthquake hits south of Alaska.
5.3 earthquake hits Alaska.
5.1 earthquake hits south of Alaska.
5.1 earthquake hits Alaska.
Three 5.0 earthquakes hit Alaska.
5.0 earthquake hits Tajikistan.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
There are no current tropical storms.
Newsbytes:
Afghanistan – Dozens of people are feared dead after flash floods in Nuristan Province in eastern Afghanistan. Flooding struck in Kamdesh district (also Kamdeish or Kamdish) in Nuristan Province late on 28 July 2021. As of 29 July, media reported at least 60 fatalities. Roads and telecommunications systems have been damaged.
Mexico – Storms and rain affecting parts of South West USA has also caused severe flooding in border areas of Mexico over the last few days. Authorities in Sonora State reported flooding in the border city of Heroica Nogales (more commonly known as Nogales) from 22 July when police were called on to rescue people from vehicles trapped in floods. Further storms and rain caused severe flooding on 27 July. Raging flood waters raced through streets, carrying along vehicles and damaging buildings.
Bird Bins
The new ability of sulfur-crested cockatoos to open trash bins in search of food appears to be spreading to more cities across southeastern Australia because the birds are copying each other’s behavior. The complicated process was first observed in 2018 and has since spread around metropolitan Sydney. It has been seen by citizen observers and researchers alike in 44 suburbs, where the birds are causing a growing mess by flinging out the rubbish they don’t want to eat. The birds have learned to grab a bin lid with their beaks, pry it open, then shuffle far enough along the edge to cause the lid to fall backward, revealing the tasty trash.
Primate vs Primate
Deadly unprovoked attacks by chimpanzees on gorillas have for the first time been observed in the West Africa nation of Gabon. Researchers at Loango National Park say two dozen chimps went after five gorillas in December 2019. An infant separated from its mother didn’t survive the assault.
Writing in the journal Nature, the scientists say more research is needed to determine what is behind the new lethal behavior. ”At first, we only noticed screams of chimpanzees and thought we were observing a typical encounter between individuals of neighbouring chimpanzee communities,” author Lara M. Southern said in a statement. “But then, we heard chest beats, a display characteristic for gorillas, and realized that the chimpanzees had encountered a group of five gorillas.”
Earth’s Vital Signs
An international coalition of more than 14,000 scientists has signed an initiative declaring that world leaders are consistently failing to cope with the main causes of climate change and the deepening climate emergency.
Writing in the journal BioScience, the group calls for the elimination of fossil fuel use, the slashing of pollutants, the restoration of ecosystems, a switch to plant-based diets and the stabilization of the planet’s human population. They say the planet’s vital signs are deteriorating at a record rate, and also call for climate change to be included in core curricula in schools for the generation that will have to cope with the hotter decades to come.
Global Temperature Extremes
The week’s hottest temperature was 122 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 degrees Celsius) in Al Qaysumah, Saudi Arabia.
The week’s coldest temperature was minus 103.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 75.0 degrees Celsius) at Vostok, Antarctica.
Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.
Wildfires – Turkey
Turkish authorities on Thursday began investigating the cause of a string of forest fires in Turkey’s Mediterranean and southern Aegean regions, including two near the coastal resort town of Manavgat that killed three people and sent over 50 others to the hospital as homes burned down.
A wildfire that broke out Wednesday in Manavgat, in Antalya province, and was fanned by strong winds and scorching temperatures, was largely contained. But another fire that started overnight and swept through the district of Akseki, 50 kilometers (30 miles) north, kept firefighters engaged.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
African Swine Fever – Dominican Republic
African swine fever (ASF) has been confirmed in samples collected from pigs in the Dominican Republic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory reports.
Lassa Fever – Liberia
Between 1 January and 18 July 2021, a total of 71 suspected cases were reported, of which 13 (18.3%) were confirmed, and 9 deaths among confirmed cases (CFR: 69%).
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 21 July – 27 July 2021
Dukono – Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 13-19 July ash plumes from Dukono rose to 2.1-2.4 km (7,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW, N, NE, and ESE.
Ebeko – Paramushir Island (Russia) : According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, explosions during 10-14 July produced ash plumes that rose as high as 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 10 and 12 July.
Fuego – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that 5-15 explosions per hour were recorded during 13-20 July at Fuego, generating ash plumes as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim and shock waves that often rattled buildings around the volcano. Ash plumes mostly drifted 10-20 km NW, W, and SW and caused daily ashfall in several areas downwind, including Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), El Porvenir (8 km ENE), Finca Palo Verde, Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), and San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW). Block avalanches descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda drainages, often reaching vegetated areas. Explosions ejected incandescent material 100-400 m above the summit during 13-19 July.
Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that ash plumes from Karymsky were identified in satellite data drifting 80 km NW, NE, and ESE during 8-11 and 15 July. A thermal anomaly was visible during 8 and 10-13 July.
Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : The fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 14-20 July. Lava fountaining and overflows from the fifth vent were sometimes visible, and lava from the crater flowed in tubes as well as on the surface. Visible activity at the vent occasionally paused for various lengths of time. IMO warned of the potential for lapilli and scoria fallout within a 650 m radius of the active vent. Authorities warned of increased gas emissions hazards.
Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that daily white-and-gray plumes from Lewotolok rose as high as 1 km and drifted W, NW, NE, and E during 13-20 July. Rumbling was heard daily. Incandescent material was ejected as far as 1 km from the summit vent in various directions during 16-18 July.
Merapi – Central Java (Indonesia) : BPPTKG reported that the lava dome just below Merapi’s SW rim and the lava dome in the summit crater both remained active during 9-15 July. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1.83 million cubic meters and continued to shed material down the flank. One pyroclastic flow traveled 1.1 km down the SW flank and as far as 1.5 km SE. Avalanches traveled a maximum of 1.5 km SE (58 times), 2 km SW (98 times), 1 km W (one time), and 700 m NW (three times). The volume of the summit lava dome was 2.796 million cubic meters.
Nevado del Ruiz – Colombia : On 21 July Servicio Geológico Colombiano’s (SGC) Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Manizales reported that seismicity at Nevado del Ruiz was generally characterized by higher number of earthquakes that had larger magnitudes than the previous week. Gas-and-steam emissions were sometimes visible in webcam images rising as high as 1.1 km above the summit and drifting WNW and WSW; these emissions sometimes contained ash. Episodes of drumbeat seismicity were recorded during 13-14 and 17 July, indicating ascent or growth of a lava dome in Arenas Crater.
Sangay – Ecuador : IG reported a high level of activity at Sangay during 13-20 July. Weather clouds and rain sometimes prevented visual and webcam observations of the volcano. Daily ash plumes were identified in satellite images by the Washington VAAC, rising between 900 m to as high as 5.4 km above the volcano and drifting W, SW, SE, and NE. Ashfall was reported in Barca and Guamote (40 km WNW) on 14 July and in Guamote on 19 July. Signals indicating lahars were recorded by the seismic network during 15-16 and 18-20 July.
Santa Maria – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 13-20 July daily explosions at Santa María’s Santiaguito lava-dome complex generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted as far as 12 km SW and W. Collapses of blocky lava from Caliente dome sent avalanches down the SW and W flanks, often reaching the base, and caused minor ashfall mostly on the volcano’s flank. Ashfall was also reported in San Marcos (8 km SW) and Loma Linda Palajunoj (6 km WSW) during 14-15 and 19-20 July. On 15 July blocks of extruded lava formed a lava flow on the W flank that was 700 m long. Block-and-ash flows descended the W and NE flanks.
Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that unrest continued at Semisopochnoi during 13-20 July. Periods of low-level tremor and steam plumes from Mount Cerberus were occasionally recorded. Elevated surface temperatures at the N cone of Mount Cerberus were identified in satellite images during 13-14 July and robust steam-and-gas emissions were seen in webcam images. A plume with low amounts of sulfur dioxide drifting about 200 km N was identified in satellite data on 17 July. Sulfur dioxide emissions were also detected the next day.
Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 9-16 July.
Sinabung – Indonesia : Video taken on 13 July and posted on social media showed new vents on the upper W flank of Sinabung that were producing steam-and-ash emissions. PVMBG reported that white-and-gray plumes rose 100-300 m from the summit and drifted E and SE. During 14-18 June white plumes rose as high as 300 m. An eruptive event that began around 1850 on 19 July and lasted about 11 minutes produced an ash plume that rose 1 km and drifted ESE.
Whakaari/White Island-North Island (New Zealand) : GeoNet reported continuing unrest at Whakaari/White Island. During overflights of the island on 15 and 20 July scientists observed minor steam-and-gas activity around the 2019 Primary Crater lava domes and noted that the Main Crater area continues to fill with water. Other fumarolic vents remained active and unchanged. Overall, seismicity was at low levels during the previous few months, punctuated by a few notable events; a short-lived tremor episode was recorded on 2 June, discrete acoustic signals recorded during 18-20 June were associated with geysering in a new vent N of 2019 Crater, and a 15-minute low-frequency volcanic earthquake occurred on 30 June. Nighttime incandescence has persisted in webcam views since the 30 June earthquake.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
7.8 Earthquake hits Alaska.
In Alaska, small tsunami waves measuring under a foot above tide level were observed in Sand Point, Old Harbor, King Cove, Kodiak, Unalaska and Alitak Bay, according to the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC). There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage to property. Several Alaskan coastal communities were evacuated following the quake.
6.2 earthquake hits Alaska.
6.1 earthquake hits Alaska.
5.6 earthquake hits south of Alaska.
5.5 earthquake hits near the coast of northern Peru.
5.4 earthquake hits Myanmar.
5.4 earthquake hits Alaska.
5.4 earthquake hits the Pacific-Antarctic ridge.
5.3 earthquake hits the central east Pacific rise.
5.1 earthquake hits Vanuatu.
5.0 earthquake hits south of Alaska.
5.0 earthquake hits Alaska.
5.0 earthquake hits Iceland.
5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits Macquarie Island.
5.0 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 11w (Nepartak), located approximately 127 nm west-northwest of Misawa, Japan, is tracking west-northwestward at 15 knots.
Newsbytes:
Pakistan – Flash floods swept through parts of Islamabad, capital city of Pakistan on 28 July 2021 after what officials described as a “cloudburst” dumped heavy rainfall. Saidpur, a village just to the north of Islamabad recorded 123 mm of rain in a few hours, while Golra Sharif, a town situated near the Margalla Hills in the Islamabad Capital Territory next to the E-11 sector recorded 103 mm. Media showed cars swept along city streets like boats. Police said 2 people from the same family died after floods entered the basement of a house.
Myanmar – Days of heavy rain have caused flooding in Shan, Rakhine, Kayin and Mon states in Myanmar. Mawlamyine in Mon State recorded 553 mm of rain in 48 hours to 27 July. 3,016 people were evacuated/affected and 11,903 persons pre-emptively evacuated into 16 evacuation centres. In Mon State, 19,840 people were evacuated/affected and 10,770 pre-emptively evacuated into 8 evacuation centres.
Wildfires – Lebanon
A “gigantic” fire engulfed forest areas in north Lebanon on Wednesday and is threatening the lives of villagers, the Red Cross said. The bushfire spread across the hills of Qoubaiyat, burning land including olive groves and oak trees in the village of Beino.
Summer bushfires are common in Lebanon, endangering people, communities, and the ecology of one the Arab world’s most verdant countries.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 21 July – 27 July 2021
Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that five explosions at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater during 12-19 July ejected bombs as far as 400 m from the crater. Crater incandescence was visible on some nights and ashfall was occasionally reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). An explosion at 2330 on 12 July produced an ash plume that rose 3.6 km. The Alert Level remained at 3 and the public was warned to stay 2 km away from the crater.
Taal – Luzon (Philippines) : PHIVOLCS reported that unrest at Taal continued during 13-20 July. Daily plumes of steam and sulfur dioxide gas rose 0.9-2.1 km from the lake and drifted in multiple directions. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 1,142-6,574 tonnes/day. Two tremor events, at 1018 and 1038 on 20 July, were felt at Intensity I by residents of Pira-piraso in the NE sector of Volcano Island. The DROMIC report stated that 3,839 people were in evacuation centers or private residences by 20 July. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 0-5) and PHIVOLCS reminded the public that the entire Taal Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and to not enter the high-risk barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel. Activities on Taal Lake were strictly prohibited.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.3 earthquake hits Samoa.
5.3 earthquake hits the southern mid-Atlantic ridge.
5.1 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits Java, Indonesia.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 11w (Nepartak), located approximately 43 nm west-southeast of Misawa, Japan, is tracking northwestward at 15 knots.
Newsbytes:
USA – Heavy rain and flash flooding affected several states in America’s Southwest. A local state of emergency was declared for communities in southern Utah and Nevada. Both areas recorded between 40 and 50 mm of rain in 1 hour. Two people were reported missing after flash floods in New Mexico. Meanwhile a teenager is still missing and a young child has died in separate incidents of flash flooding in Arizona over the last few days.
Italy – Heavy rainfall raced down slopes around Lake Como, triggering landslides and flash floods on the communities below. The communes of Cernobbio, Brienno, Laglio and Argegno in Como Province, Lombardy Region were the worst affected. Homes were damaged and roads completely blocked.
Bangladesh – Heavy rainfall in the Cox’s Bazar refugee camps in Bangladesh caused deadly floods landslides on 27 July 2021. Shelters were damaged in the camps which house as many as 900,000 Rohingya refugees. Many of the crowded camps are known to be at risk of flooding and landslides. Eight people have died including 4 children in the recent spate of floods and landslides. Flooding has also caused damage to crops and aquaculture in other areas of Cox’s Bazar District. Cox’s Bazar town recorded 114.24 mm of rain 24 hours to 27 July and 781.03 mm so far this month. More heavy rain is forecast over the coming days.
China Update – As of 26 July, heavy rain and floods had affected 12.9 million people in 150 counties (cities, districts) and 1,558 towns across Henan. As many as 24,474 houses have been severely damaged or destroyed. Damage was also caused to 972,000 hectares of farmland. Over 1.31 million people have evacuated to safer areas. A total of 69 people have lost their lives and 5 are still missing.
India Update – Disaster authorities in India report that 192 people have now died in floods and landslides in the western state of Maharashtra since record heavy rainfall from 22 July 2021. The heavy rain brought floods and landslides affected 1028 villages across the districts of Ratnagiri, Raigad, Kolhapur, Thane, Sangli, Satara, Sindhudurg, Pune, Wardha and suburban areas of Mumbai. Over 40 roads were submerged and a bridge on the Vashishti river at Chiplun was severely damaged.
Costa Rica – More than 3,000 people have evacuated their homes after floods in Costa Rica. Two fatalities have been reported and a further 2 people remain missing. Heavy rain has affected the country since 22 July 2021. Several rivers have broken their banks, causing damages. Authorities said the overflowing La Estrella river severely damaged a bridge on Route 36 in Talamanca Canton, Limón province. Transport has been closed since.
Nature – Images
In rare wildlife encounter, whale watchers in Japan recently saw a pair of white orcas swimming side by side in a pod off the coast of Hokkaido.
Wildfires – Greece and Spain
In Greece, scores of forest fires burned between Sunday and Monday with more than 700 firefighters being deployed to take control of the situation.
The Iberian peninsula has not been spared from the fires, with blazes ripping through Catalonia on the northeastern corner of Spain. More than 1,700 hectares have burned in the regions of Conca de Barberà and Anoia, but the blazes were 90% stabilized on Monday. In Lietor, in the central east region of Castilla-La Mancha, more than 2,500 hectares burned during the weekend before being brought under control on Monday by a crew of over 500 people, local authorities said.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Yellow Fever – DR Congo
Two yellow fever cases in individuals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were confirmed by the WHO on 18 July.
Dengue Fever – Bangladesh
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in Bangladesh recorded an additional 143 new dengue cases on Tuesday as the surge in the mosquito borne disease continues in the country. This follows 123 cases reported on Monday and 105 on Sunday. A total of 1,954 patients have been diagnosed with dengue this year.
RSV – New Zealand
New Zealand is experiencing a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) outbreak across the country. The numbers of cases started increasing sharply in early June and to date 3,232 cases have been reported through July 18, including the 689 cases reported that week.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.3 earthquake hits Sulawesi, Indonesia.
5.1 earthquake hits western Honshu, Japan.
5.0 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits near the east coast of Kamchatka.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 11w (Nepartak), located approximately 130 nm east-northeast of Yokosuka, Japan, is tracking northward at 09 knots.
Newsbytes:
Philippines – Over 80,000 people have evacuated their homes in the Philippines after severe weather brought by the southwest monsoon, enhanced by Typhoon Fabian (international name “In-fa”) from 22 July 2021. At least 3 people have died and 5 injured as a result of falling trees or lightning strikes.
Western Europe – Thunderstorms affected parts of western Europe over the weekend 24 to 25 July 2021. Flooding caused traffic chaos on roads in London, UK and Berlin, Germany. Vehicles were swept away by powerful flash floods in Lucerne Canton in Switzerland. Heavy thunderstorms hit Switzerland overnight 24 to 25 July 2021. Strong winds, hail, lightning and heavy rain affected areas of Bern, Lucerne, Neuchâtel and Schwyz Cantons in particular. Storms in South East England on 25 July 2021 brought heavy rain and flooding to parts of the capital, London. Vehicles were stranded on flooded roads, including the on the M11 motorway. Several train stations were closed due to flooding. Parts of Berlin, the German capital, and surrounding areas of the state of Brandenburg saw heavy rain and strong winds on 25 July 2021. Flooding caused disruption on several major roads, including those around Berlin Airport. Berlin Fire Service declared a temporary state of emergency due to the volume of calls. Figures from Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) showed that 51.2 mm of rain fell in 1 hour in the locality of Karow in Pankow, north Berlin between 18:00 and 19:00 on 25 July 2021.
Wildfires – Sardinia
About 1,000 residents and tourists have been evacuated from areas of western Sardinia that were ravaged by wildfires over the weekend, with forests, pastures and villages on the Italian island engulfed in flames.
Since early Saturday, when the wildfires started near a forest by the village of Bonacardo, at least 50,000 acres of land have gone up in flames. Hundreds of sheep, goats, cows and pigs died after being trapped in barns at farms in the fires’ path, despite emergency workers’ efforts to save them.
Wildfires – California, USA
Flames racing through rugged terrain in Northern California destroyed multiple homes Saturday as the state’s largest wildfire intensified and numerous other blazes battered the U.S. West. The Dixie fire, which started July 14, had already leveled over a dozen houses and other structures when it tore through the tiny community of Indian Falls after dark.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) – Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia health officials reported a new case of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in a 67-year-old man from Riyadh City. It is reported the man had contact with camels. This is the tenth MERS case of 2021 in the Kingdom and the 11th overall (one in the United Arab Emirates).
Yellow Fever – Brazil
The Government of Amapá confirmed Wednesday one death from yellow fever in the city of Macapá. In addition, in the municipality of Dona Emma, Santa Catarina state, two monkeys were found dead from yellow fever.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.0 earthquake hits Sulawesi, Indonesia.
5.5 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.5 earthquake hits Hokkaido, Japan.
5.3 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.2 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.2 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.1 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits Guam.
5.0 earthquake hits the Myanmar-India border.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 36 nm west-southwest of Shanghai, China, is tracking north-northwestward at 03 knots. Final warning.
Tropical storm 11w (Nepartak), located approximately 352 nm east of Yokosuka, Japan, is tracking west-northwestward at 17 knots.
Newsbytes:
Panama – Disaster authorities in Panama reported severe damages after floods and heavy rain in Bocas del Toro province. Flooding had affected 27,175 people across 27 sectors in the province . Five landslides were also reported. Flooding struck after heavy rain from 22 July. Several rivers including the Sixaola River and its tributaries broke their banks. Over 20 people had to be rescued from flood water. As many as 5,435 homes had been flooded.
India – While a massive rescue effort is ongoing in the state of Maharashtra, teams from the Air Force, Army, Navy and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in India have also been deployed to flood-hit areas of the state of Karnataka. Karnatak has seen particularly heavy rainfall from 22 July. In a 24 hour period to early 23 July, Ankola in Uttara Kannada District recorded 541 mm of rain. In the following 24 hour period, Thirthahalli in Shimoga district saw 355 mm of rain. Nine people have died and three people are missing in flood-affected regions of Karnataka.
Belgium – New floods have affected parts of Belgium just days after a deadly wave of floods swept across the country. Thunderstorms brought heavy rainfall that triggered localized flooding on 24 July 2021. Officials said municipalities in the province of Namur were affected, in particular the cities of Dinant and Namur. Around thirty cars were washed away and several streets had to be closed in the city of Dinant situated on the banks of the Meuse River. Dinant station was also flooded.
Russia – One person has died and 3 are still missing after flash floods once again struck in Sochi on the Black Sea coast in Russia. Further flooding struck in Sochi on 23 July 2021. A month’s worth of rain fell in a few hours, flooding several streets around the city. The Matsesta and Khosta rivers broke their banks. A hospital was flooded and power supplies to six areas of Sochi were disrupted after electrical substations were turned off. Beaches of the resort city were temporarily closed.
Jet Streams are the Weather
Devastating floods destroyed towns in Germany and Belgium. A ruthless heat wave broiled the Western United States and Canada. Heavy rains paralysed a Chinese industrial hub home to 10 million people. These recent weather phenomena are being intensified by the changing climate.
But the link between these far-flung extremes goes beyond warming global temperatures. All of these events are touched by jet streams, strong and narrow bands of westerly winds blowing above the Earth’s surface.
The currents are generated when cold air from the poles clashes against hot air from the tropics, creating storms and other phenomena such as rain and drought.
Jet streams are the weather – they create it and they steer it. Sometimes the jet stream takes on a very convoluted pattern. When we see it taking big swings north and big dips southward we know we’re going to see some unusual weather conditions. When that happens, warm air travels further north and cold air penetrates further south.
Under these conditions, winds often weaken and dangerous weather can remain stuck in the same place for days or weeks at a time – rather than just a few hours or a day – leading to prolonged rains and heat waves.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Malaria – Nigeria
Nigerian health officials continue to report an increase in cholera cases across the country. In the week ending July 11, eight states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) reported 1,885 suspected cases, including 31 deaths.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.6 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.4 earthquake hits the Gulf of California.
5.3 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.
5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.1 earthquake hits the Solomon Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits Chiapas, Mexico.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 86 nm south-southeast of Shanghai, China, is tracking northwestward at 05 knots.
Tropical storm 11w (Nepartak), located approximately 595 nm east-southeast of Yokosuka, Japan, is tracking northward at 27 knots.
Newsbytes:
Russia – While northern areas of Russia‘s Far East Region are fighting wildfires, territories further south have seen ongoing floods. Flooding has affected 99 settlements across Zabaykalsky Krai (Territory), Khabarovsk Krai and Amur Oblast (Region). As many as 2,355 residential buildings, more than 5,000 household plots, 76 low-water bridges and 408 road sections have been damaged. Furthermore, preventive purposes, almost 4,000 people were evacuated.
India – At least 76 people have died in landslides and floods in parts of Maharashtra the state government said on 24 July. The recent spate of floods and landslides began on 22 July 2021 after record rainfall. Over 90,000 people have evacuated across 9 districts and over 1,800 people have been rescued. Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sangli and Kolhapur districts are among the worst affected.
Wildfires – USA
The country’s largest wildfire has burned 401,601 acres in Fremont-Winema National Forest, which is about 15 miles northwest of Beatty, Oregon. More than 2,000 personnel have worked since July 6 to contain the wildfire, which is when officials say it was first ignited by lightning and natural causes. As of Saturday, 42% of the Bootleg Fire was contained.
The quickly-spreading Dixie Fire near Feather River Canyon in Butte County, California, has burned 181,289 acres and is only 19% contained. The cause of the wildfire, ignited on July 13, is under investigation and more than 4,000 personnel are working to contain it.
The Snake River Complex Fire in Idaho has burned 107,679 acres and was 74% contained as of Saturday. It is burning about 20 miles south of Lewiston, Idaho. Lightning ignited the fire on July 7, and although spot fires have sprung up daily outside of its control lines, the fire has grown slowly and is being contained by the 208 personnel assigned to its mitigation.
The Lick Creek (Dry Gulch) Fire has burned 80,392 acres across areas in Oregon and Washington State. Its perimeter has been contained by 75%.
Lightning ignited the Tamarack Fire on July 4 approximately 16 miles south of Gardnerville, Nevada. As of Saturday, 65,152 acres have burned and it is was 4% contained. More than 1,000 personnel are fighting the fire.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Bird Flu – China
Hong Kong health authorities report monitoring three human cases of avian influenza A(H5N6) in the Mainland. One patient died.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.6 earthquake hits Mindoro in the Philippines.
5.8 earthquake hits Mindoro in the Philippines.
5.3 earthquake hits south of Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits Fiji.
5.0 earthquake hits the southern mid-Atlantic ridge.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 193 nm west-northwest of Kadena AFB, is tracking north-northwestward at 10 knots.
Tropical depression 10w (Cempaka), located approximately 99 nm southeast of Hanoi, Vietnam, is tracking southward at 07 knots. Final warning.
Tropical storm 11w (Nepartak), located approximately 755 nm southeast of Yokosuka, Japan, is tracking north- northeastward at 10 knots.
Newsbytes:
Yemen – Storms and heavy rain have caused flooding in several parts of Yemen over the last few days. Local media, quoting officials, said at least 14 people had lost their lives as a result. As well as causing loss of life, flooding has destroyed crops, roads and communications infrastructure.
Wildfires – Oregon, USA
Thursday afternoon reports said the Bootleg Fire remained roughly 399,359 acres and 38% contained, making it the third-largest wildfire and second-largest forest fire to burn in Oregon since 1900. Meanwhile nine firefighters assigned to the blaze tested positive for COVID-19.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Legionnaires Disease – Michigan, USA
Michigan state and local health officials report investigating a recent increase in reports of Legionnaires’ disease. Between July 1 and July 14, 107 cases of Legionnaires’ disease have been reported in 25 counties.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.4 earthquake hits New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.
5.1 earthquake hits south of Panama.
5.0 earthquake hits Crete.
5.0 earthquake hits the Greenland Sea.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 185 nm southwest of Kadena AFB, is tracking northwestward at 04 knots.
Tropical depression 10w (Cempaka), located approximately 97 nm east of Hanoi, Vietnam, is tracking southward at 09 knots.
Newsbytes:
Turkey – More than 400 people evacuated their homes after major flooding struck in Turkey‘s Black Sea Region late on 21 July 2021. Heavy rain caused rivers and streams to overflow in the region, in particular in the Arhavi and Murgul districts of Artvin province and Fındıklı district of Rize province.
Indonesia – Communities in West Kalimantan and Central Kalimantan Provinces of Indonesia have endured days of flooding where homes have been submerged and thousands of families evacuated. 2 people died and 2 were injured after floods in North Kayong Regency, West Kalimantan Province on 13 July. As many as 5,114 houses were submerged in Sukadana District and Maya Island District and 4,845 families were evacuated. The local disaster agency said at least 422 families (1,681 people) were forced to evacuate due to the flood, which damaged 5,002 houses and 217 public buildings in floods that also hit in Kapuas Hulu Regency of West Kalimantan.
USA – Severe flooding struck in parts of Colorado and New Mexico, USA, over the last few days. Officials report at least 3 people have died and 3 more are missing as a result. Flooding and mudslides struck in northern Colorado after heavy rain fell on burn scar areas on 20 July 2021. Evacuation notices were issued for areas near the town of Rustic, Larimer County. A mudslide sent a large amount of debris into the Poudre Canyon in Larimer County. Three people were swept away in the mudslide. At least five houses were destroyed and roads were damaged in the flooding. Meanwhile storms brought heavy rain to Albuquerque, New Mexico, on 20 July. Three people were reported missing after they were swept into an arroyo (water channel) in the northeast of the city. Firefighters have since found the bodies of 2 victims.
Tajikistan – At least 12 people have died after being swept away by floods and mudslides in Tajikistan. Flooding and mudslides swept through villages in several districts of Sughd Region on 19 July 2021 after heavy rainfall. 15 houses and 3km of roads were damaged in the Yori jamoat (municipality) of Panjakent (also Penjikent) District. Livestock were swept away. In a separate incident 10 cattle herders lost their lives when mudslides swept over pasture areas near Kishtudak village in Panjakent. Meanwhile bridges, roads, power lines and water infrastructure were damaged by floods in Ayni district. Eight houses and several vehicles were also damaged but no casualties were reported.
China – Update – As many as 33 people have now lost their lives in the catastrophic flooding in Henan province in central China. Massive flooding struck the city of Zhengzhou and areas of Henan Province on 20 July 2021 after days of torrential rain. According to state media, as of 22 July, 33 people have lost their lives and 8 are still missing. Around 3 million people have been affected and 376,000 people relocated to safer accommodation.
Baboon Raids
Ferocious baboons are terrorizing farmers in western Kenya with such intensity that conventional weapons such as clubs and spears cannot keep the marauders at bay. The Nation reports that some of the primates have invaded homes to scavenge for food without fear of humans. This has forced some farmers to gather packs of dogs to protect their crops and other property. “My dogs sometimes sustain serious injuries,” Nicanor Odongo told the daily.
Other farmers complain that the Kenya Wildlife Service is not doing enough to protect them from the baboons, but local officials say the agency is making plans to relocate the aggressive animals to a game park.
Flamingo Tragedy
The dried-up lake bed of central Turkey’s Lake Tuz is littered with the remains of thousands of flamingos that became the victims of a devastating regional drought and what some say were reckless irrigation practices this summer.
Environmental advocates say a canal that usually feeds the shallow lake was redirected for use by farmers. Typically, as many as 10,000 flamingo chicks hatch at Lake Tuz each year, but most of the 5,000 that hatched this year died. Visitors to the UNESCO-protected lake say not a single live flamingo could be seen.
Climate Disasters
Atmospheric experts concede that they were shocked by the intensity of the recent European floods and the North American heat dome, saying their computer models are not yet able to project such extremes.
Some scientists say the next official predictions due out in August by the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change will already be outdated when released due to the rapidly intensifying climate emergency.
Freak weather events are now happening with greater frequency, ranging from the heaviest rain on record in parts of Japan and China this month to the record-breaking June heat across parts of India, Pakistan and Libya.
Global Temperature Extremes
The week’s hottest temperature was 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50.0 degrees Celsius) in Adrar. Algeria.
The week’s coldest temperature was minus 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 73.3 degrees Celsius) at Vostok, Antarctica.
Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.
Wildfires – Madagascar
The increase in fire outbreaks is a serious threat to Madagascar’s landscape. According to figures from the Directorate for the Revalorisation of Forest Resources at the Madagascan Ministry of the Environment, 10,000 hectares of forest are lost every year in Madagascar due to bush fires. And statistics provided by the US Space Agency (Nasa) indicate that “90% of the burnt areas correspond to grassy/shrubby savannahs, a little more than 5% to forest areas and less than 5% to crop areas.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Dengue Fever – Philippines
The health office in Benguet province in Luzon island, Philippines reported a total of 483 dengue fever cases from January 1 to June 30 this year. This is nearly double the 255 cases during the same period last year.
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 14 July – 20 July 2021
Dukono – Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 13-19 July ash plumes from Dukono rose to 2.1-2.4 km (7,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW, N, NE, and ESE. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.
Ebeko – Paramushir Island (Russia) : According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, explosions during 10-14 July produced ash plumes that rose as high as 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 10 and 12 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Fuego – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that 5-15 explosions per hour were recorded during 13-20 July at Fuego, generating ash plumes as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim and shock waves that often rattled buildings around the volcano. Ash plumes mostly drifted 10-20 km NW, W, and SW and caused daily ashfall in several areas downwind, including Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), El Porvenir (8 km ENE), Finca Palo Verde, Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), and San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW). Block avalanches descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda drainages, often reaching vegetated areas. Explosions ejected incandescent material 100-400 m above the summit during 13-19 July.
Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that ash plumes from Karymsky were identified in satellite data drifting 80 km NW, NE, and ESE during 8-11 and 15 July. A thermal anomaly was visible during 8 and 10-13 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : The fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 14-20 July. Lava fountaining and overflows from the fifth vent were sometimes visible, and lava from the crater flowed in tubes as well as on the surface. Visible activity at the vent occasionally paused for various lengths of time. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange due to the lack of ash and tephra emissions, though IMO warned of the potential for lapilli and scoria fallout within a 650 m radius of the active vent. Authorities warned of increased gas emissions hazards.
Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that daily white-and-gray plumes from Lewotolok rose as high as 1 km and drifted W, NW, NE, and E during 13-20 July. Rumbling was heard daily. Incandescent material was ejected as far as 1 km from the summit vent in various directions during 16-18 July. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.
Merapi – Central Java (Indonesia) : BPPTKG reported that the lava dome just below Merapi’s SW rim and the lava dome in the summit crater both remained active during 9-15 July. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1.83 million cubic meters and continued to shed material down the flank. One pyroclastic flow traveled 1.1 km down the SW flank and as far as 1.5 km SE. Avalanches traveled a maximum of 1.5 km SE (58 times), 2 km SW (98 times), 1 km W (one time), and 700 m NW (three times). The volume of the summit lava dome was 2.796 million cubic meters. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 5 km away from the summit.
Nevado del Ruiz – Colombia : On 21 July Servicio Geológico Colombiano’s (SGC) Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Manizales reported that seismicity at Nevado del Ruiz was generally characterized by higher number of earthquakes that had larger magnitudes than the previous week. Gas-and-steam emissions were sometimes visible in webcam images rising as high as 1.1 km above the summit and drifting WNW and WSW; these emissions sometimes contained ash. Episodes of drumbeat seismicity were recorded during 13-14 and 17 July, indicating ascent or growth of a lava dome in Arenas Crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (Yellow; the second lowest level on a four-colour scale).
Sangay – Ecuador : IG reported a high level of activity at Sangay during 13-20 July. Weather clouds and rain sometimes prevented visual and webcam observations of the volcano. Daily ash plumes were identified in satellite images by the Washington VAAC, rising between 900 m to as high as 5.4 km above the volcano and drifting W, SW, SE, and NE. Ashfall was reported in Barca and Guamote (40 km WNW) on 14 July and in Guamote on 19 July. Signals indicating lahars were recorded by the seismic network during 15-16 and 18-20 July.
Santa Maria – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 13-20 July daily explosions at Santa María’s Santiaguito lava-dome complex generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted as far as 12 km SW and W. Collapses of blocky lava from Caliente dome sent avalanches down the SW and W flanks, often reaching the base, and caused minor ashfall mostly on the volcano’s flank. Ashfall was also reported in San Marcos (8 km SW) and Loma Linda Palajunoj (6 km WSW) during 14-15 and 19-20 July. On 15 July blocks of extruded lava formed a lava flow on the W flank that was 700 m long. Block-and-ash flows descended the W and NE flanks.
Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that unrest continued at Semisopochnoi during 13-20 July. Periods of low-level tremor and steam plumes from Mount Cerberus were occasionally recorded. Elevated surface temperatures at the N cone of Mount Cerberus were identified in satellite images during 13-14 July and robust steam-and-gas emissions were seen in webcam images. A plume with low amounts of sulfur dioxide drifting about 200 km N was identified in satellite data on 17 July. Sulfur dioxide emissions were also detected the next day. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.Sheveluch
Central Kamchatka (Russia)
KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 9-16 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 9-16 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Sinabung – Indonesia : Video taken on 13 July and posted on social media showed new vents on the upper W flank of Sinabung that were producing steam-and-ash emissions. PVMBG reported that white-and-gray plumes rose 100-300 m from the summit and drifted E and SE. During 14-18 June white plumes rose as high as 300 m. An eruptive event that began around 1850 on 19 July and lasted about 11 minutes produced an ash plume that rose 1 km and drifted ESE. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.
Whakaari/White Island-North Island (New Zealand) : GeoNet reported continuing unrest at Whakaari/White Island. During overflights of the island on 15 and 20 July scientists observed minor steam-and-gas activity around the 2019 Primary Crater lava domes and noted that the Main Crater area continues to fill with water. Other fumarolic vents remained active and unchanged. Overall, seismicity was at low levels during the previous few months, punctuated by a few notable events; a short-lived tremor episode was recorded on 2 June, discrete acoustic signals recorded during 18-20 June were associated with geysering in a new vent N of 2019 Crater, and a 15-minute low-frequency volcanic earthquake occurred on 30 June. Nighttime incandescence has persisted in webcam views since the 30 June earthquake. Thermal infrared measurements taken on 15 July confirmed that temperatures at dome vents had notably increased, from around 110 degrees Celsius measured in late May-early June to 498-654 degrees. Gas emissions had not notably changed over the previous few months as confirmed during the 20 July overflight. The Volcanic Alert Level remained at 1 and the Aviation colour Code remained at Green.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.7 earthquake hits south of Panama.
6.0 earthquake hits Panama.
5.6 earthquake hits the Bismarck Sea.
5.2 earthquake hits Vanuatu.
5.2 earthquake hits near the coast of Nicaragua.
5.2 earthquake hits Sulawesi, Indonesia.
5.0 earthquake hits northern Peru.
5.0 earthquake hits Antofagasta, Chile.
5.0 earthquake hits south of Panama.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 208 nm south-southwest of Kadena AFB, is tracking westward at 02 knots.
Tropical depression 10w (Cempaka), located approximately 165 nm northeast of Hanoi, Vietnam, is tracking west-southwestward at 06 knots.
Newsbytes:
Pakistan – Over 20 people have died in rain-related incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in northern Pakistan over the last 10 days. Many of the victims died when heavy rain or floods caused roofs, walls or whole buildings to collapse. This is a regular occurrence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where fragile or poor housing leaves many communities exposed to severe weather conditions.
Romania – One person has died and dozens evacuated or rescued by emergency services after heavy rain and storms caused flooding and wind damage across parts of Romania over the last few days. Dozens of homes and roads have been flooded as a result of heavy rain from 18 July. IGSU reported 60 people were evacuated in Lerești, Argeș County and 8 in Busteni in Prahova County on 20 July. The previous day 14 people had to be rescued from 6 vehicles trapped in flood water on a road between between Durău and Grințieș in Neamț County. Evacuations were also carried out in Bistra in Alba County. Flooding and landslides have affected Alba County since 15 July. Over thirty homes were flooded and more than 20 people evacuated, mostly in areas around Ocoliş.
Wildfires – British Columbia, Canada
The Canadian province of British Columbia (BC) has declared a state of emergency amid a surge in wildfires that have forced hundreds of people from their homes and could worsen in the coming days. 299 blazes are actively burning across BC, including 18 that were sparked during the previous two days. More than 3,180 firefighters and other staff are fighting fires across the province.
Forty evacuation orders affecting approximately 5,724 people are currently in place, while 69 evacuation alerts – under which residents are told to be ready to leave their homes at a moment’s notice – affecting more than 32,000 people have also been issued.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 14 July – 20 July 2021
Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that five explosions at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater during 12-19 July ejected bombs as far as 400 m from the crater. Crater incandescence was visible on some nights and ashfall was occasionally reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). An explosion at 2330 on 12 July produced an ash plume that rose 3.6 km. The Alert Level remained at 3 and the public was warned to stay 2 km away from the crater.
Taal – Luzon (Philippines) : PHIVOLCS reported that unrest at Taal continued during 13-20 July. Daily plumes of steam and sulfur dioxide gas rose 0.9-2.1 km from the lake and drifted in multiple directions. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 1,142-6,574 tonnes/day. Two tremor events, at 1018 and 1038 on 20 July, were felt at Intensity I by residents of Pira-piraso in the NE sector of Volcano Island. The DROMIC report stated that 3,839 people were in evacuation centers or private residences by 20 July. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 0-5) and PHIVOLCS reminded the public that the entire Taal Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and to not enter the high-risk barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel. Activities on Taal Lake were strictly prohibited.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.4 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.
5.3 earthquake hits Pakistan.
5.1 earthquake hits Kepulauan Barat Daya, Indonesia.
5.0 earthquake hits Tristan da Cunha.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 06e (Felicia), located approximately 896 nm east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, is tracking west-southwestward at 15 knots. Final waring.
Tropical depression 07e (Guillermo), located approximately 954 nm southwest of San Diego, is tracking west-southwestward at 15 knots. Final warning.
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 141 nm south of Kadena AFB, is tracking westward at 06 knots.
Tropical depression 10w (Cempaka), located approximately 206 nm west of Hong Kong, is tracking northwestward at 05 knots.
Newsbytes:
China – Massive flooding struck in the city of Zhengzhou and other areas of Henan province, central China, on 20 July 2021. According to figures from China’s National Meteorological Center, Zhengzhou recorded 622.7 mm of rain in 24 hours to early (local time) 21 July 2021. According to the World Meteorological Organization, the annual average rainfall for the city is 645 mm. Average rainfall for July is 147 mm. On 20 July, Zhengzhou saw more than that in just 1 hour. The subway system in Zhengzhou was inundated with flood water. Images showed passengers in trains standing in water up to chest height. Others had to walk along flooded tracks to escape the flooding. Above ground, dozens of cars were seen floating along city streets. Water and electricity supply were cut in some areas of the city. At least one person died and two more were missing. Over 10,000 people have evacuated their homes and moved to shelters in Henan Province. Flooding caused an aluminium alloy plant to explode in Dengfeng.
Nigeria – As many as 300 homes were damaged by severe flooding in Jalingo, Taraba State in North Eastern Nigeria after heavy rain from 09 July 2021, while heavy rain on 16 July swamped roads in Lagos, the country’s largest city. Local media said as many as 4,000 people were displaced by the floods.
Alabama, USA – Flash flooding occurred in Birmingham metropolitan area and surrounding Jefferson County in Alabama, USA, after heavy rain on 19 July 2021. Roads were blocked and fire fighters carried out rescues with boats.
Moonfish washes up on Oregon, USA Shore
A 100-pound opah fish, also known as a moonfish, was recently found washed up on a beach in Oregon hundreds of miles from its normal habitat.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Monkeypox – Nigeria
In 2017, Nigeria detected its first monkeypox case in 39 years. Since September 2017, Nigeria has been experiencing the largest monkeypox outbreak in the country’s history. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a total of 466 suspected monkeypox cases from 30 states.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.6 earthquake hits the Bismarck Sea.
5.6 earthquake hits New Britain, Papua New Guinea.
5.3 earthquake hits the Bismarck Sea.
5.0 earthquake hits the Bismarck sea.
5.0 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 06e (Felicia), located approximately 1135 nm east of Hilo, Hawaii, is tracking westward at 14 knots.
Tropical depression 07e (Guillermo), located approximately 868 nm south-southwest of San Diego, is tracking westward at 14 knots.
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 149 nm southeast of Kadena AFB, is tracking west-northwestward at 10 knots.
Typhoon 10w (Cempaka), located approximately 119 nm west-southwest of Hong Kong, is tracking northwestward at 01 knots.
Newsbytes:
China – Two reservoir dams failed in locations near Hulunbuir City in the autonomous region of Inner Mongolia, on 17 July 2021. The dams failed after a period of heavy rainfall. Over 200mm of rain fell in some areas, causing dams to fail in 2 separate locations. Nearby areas were flooded and authorities initiated an emergency response, carrying out households checks and search and rescue operations. According to media reports, bridges and roads were destroyed and wide areas of farmland inundated. Over 16,000 people in the area are thought to have ben affected by the floods.
Colombia – Overflowing rivers and flash floods have affected parts of Antioquia Department in northwest Colombia since mid-July 2021. 2 people died after their vehicles was swept away by flash floods in Santo Domingo municipality on 17 July. Meanwhile one person died after heavy rains caused the sudden increase of the Buey river in Montebello Municipality. As many as 36 homes were in danger of collapsing into the river after the floods wiped out around 40 metres of river bank.
Iran – Flash flooding, storms and heavy rainfall have affected 15 provinces of Iran over the last week, causing fatalities, displacements and emergency rescues. 2,578 people were affected, 611 people have been displaced from their homes and 58 people had to be rescued. According to Red Crescent reports, 7 people died in floods while 1 person was killed as a result of lightning strike. Among the fatalities are two people who went missing after vehicles were swept away by flash floods in Baft county, Kerman Province on 17 July.
Wildfires – California, USA
Dixie Fire – Cal Fire’s Butte Unit now reports the Dixie Fire at just over 30,000 acres, up from about 19,000 acres as of Sunday evening. Containment remains at 15%.
Tamarack Fire – The Tamarack Fire in Alpine County, which first ignited about two weeks ago by lightning, erupted in size Friday evening, swept by gusty winds. The U.S. Forest Service’s Humboldt-Toiyabe unit said the blaze grew from 500 to 6,600 acres over the course of Friday. It was reported Monday morning at 23,078 acres, still with no containment.
Beckwourth Complex – Containment is growing on the Beckwourth Complex, now reported at 105,348 acres. It is California’s largest wildfire of 2021 so far by acreage. The incident, made up of the Dotta Fire and Sugar Fire, was sparked by lightning in early July, according to the Forest Service.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.5 earthquake hits Minahasa, Sulawesi, Indonesia.
5.4 earthquake hits southern Iran.
5.1 earthquake hits Pitcairn Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits New Britain, Papua New Guinea.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 06e (Felicia), located approximately 1224 nm southwest of San Diego, is tracking westward at 10 knots.
Tropical storm 07e (Guillermo), located approximately 836 nm south of San Diego, is tracking westward at 13 knots.
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 259 nm southeast of Kadena AFB, is tracking northwestward at 03 knots.
Tropical storm 10w (Cempaka), located approximately 103 nm southwest of Hong Kong, is tracking west-northwestward at 02 knots.
Newsbytes:
New Zealand – Hundreds of people evacuated their homes after severe flooding in the Marlborough Region of New Zealand from 16 July 2021. The District of Marlborough has declared a state of emergency. River levels jumped and officials said it was the largest ever recorded flood in the region. The Wairau River at Barnetts Bank reached 8.946 metres and a peak flow of 6,040 cubic metres per second on 17 July.
Germany and Astria – More heavy rain has caused deadly flash flooding in western Europe, this time in the Alpine Region along the border between southern Germany and Austria. Meanwhile the number of people who have lost thier lives in the flooding in Belgium and western Germany has increased to over 180. In southern Germany, the district of Berchtesgadener Land in the state of Bavaria declared a disaster in response to flooding on 17 July, 2021. Heavy rain caused mudslides, flash flooding and several small rivers to break their banks. Berchtesgaden recorded 89.8 mm of rain in 24 hours to 18 July. Deutscher Wetterdienst said some areas saw more than 130 mm. In Austria, damaging floods swept through areas along the Salzach River and its tributaries in the state of Salzburg late on 17 July 2021. The town of Hallein was particularly badly affected.
India – Heavy Monsoon rainfall in western India has caused widespread damage and triggered flash floods and several landslides in part of the country’s largest city, Mumbai. Mumbai International Airport recorded 235 mm of rain in 24 hours to 18 July, 2021, while the weather station at Mumbai-Colaba recorded 197 mm. Several home were destroyed in the Mumbai suburbs of Chembur and Vikhroli as a result of the heavy rain and rain-triggered landslides on 18 July. According to the latest assessments, at least 14 bodies have been retrieved from the collapsed buildings in Chembur, while 6 people have lost their lives in Vikhroli. Dozens of people were reportedly injured.
Wildfires – California, USA
In California, a growing wildfire south of Lake Tahoe jumped a highway, prompting more evacuation orders and the cancellation of an extreme bike ride through the Sierra Nevada on Saturday. The Tamarack Fire, which was sparked by lightning on July 4, had charred nearly 29 sq miles of dry brush and timber as of Sunday morning.
Wildfires – Siberia
Heavy smoke from raging wildfires covered the Russian city of Yakutsk and 50 other Siberian towns and settlements Sunday, temporarily halting operations at the city’s airport. Local emergency officials said 187 fires raged in the region on Sunday, and the total area engulfed by blazes has grown by 100,000 hectares (about 247,000 acres) in the past 24 hours.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Under-Reported Covid-19 Deaths
India has joined those countries allegedly under-reporting coif-19 deaths, with experts suggesting the actual death toll in India may be more then 2 500 000.
Legionnaires Disease – Germany
In Heilbronn District, in northern Baden-Württemberg, Germany, it is reported that five men and women have contracted Legionnaires’ disease and two have died.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.2 earthquake hits south of Panama.
5.7 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.
5.5 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.4 earthquake hits Kyushu, Japan.
5.3 earthquake hits the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.
5.2 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.
5.2 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.
5.1 earthquake hits offshore Northern California.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 06e (Felicia), located approximately 1141 nm south-southwest of San Diego, is tracking west-southwestward at 08 knots.
Tropical storm 07e (Guillermo), located approximately 968 nm south-southeast of San Diego, is tracking west- northwestward at 10 knots.
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 09w (In-Fa), located approximately 327 nm southeast of Kadena AFB, is tracked north-northwestward at 05 knots.
Newsbytes:
Oman – At least 4 people have died, 3 are missing and dozens have been rescued by emergency services after flash floods in Oman following days of heavy rainfall. In 48 hours to 17 July, the city port of Sur in Ash Sharqiyah South Governorate recorded 204.4 mm of rain. At least 30 families were evacuated from flooded homes in Sur on 17 July where power supply has been interrupted. Heavy rain and floods also affected other areas of the country. Evacuations were also carried out in Falaj Al Qabail in North Al Batinah Governorate after homes were flooded.
Luxembourg – Dozens of people were evacuated and emergency services responded to more than 1,000 calls for help after flooding in Luxembourg following heavy rain on 14 July 2021. The government said material damage is significant. After initially warning residents in affected areas to stay in their homes, over 150 people were evacuated in Echternach, which is situated on the Sauer / Sûre river on the border with Germany. Evacuations were also reported in Rosport.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Tetanus – Dominican Republic
Health officials in the Dominican Republic have reported 19 tetanus cases so far this year, which has resulted in six fatalities, according to epidemiological surveillance.
Plague – Colorado, USA
According to a report in the Durango Herald today, local health officials say a sample of fleas collected in south central La Plata County has tested positive for Yersinia pestis, the bacterial agent of plague.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.5 earthquake hits Fiji.
5.4 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.
5.3 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.2 earthquake hits east of the Philippines.
5.2 earthquake hits the Peru-Ecuador border.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 06e (Felicia), located approximately 1141 nm south-southwest of San Diego, is tracking west-southwestward at 08 knots.
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 09w (Nine), located approximately 423 nm southeast of Kadena AFB, is tracked northwestward at 09 knots.
Newsbytes:
Germany – The official death toll from flooding in western Germany has now increased to more than 100 people, with many more still missing. Transport, telecommunications, power and water infrastructure have been severely damaged, impeding damage assessments. As of 16 July there were still an unknown number of people unaccounted for, including 1,300 people in Bad Neuenahr, Ahrweiler district of Rhineland-Palatinate. Search and rescue operations are continuing. The full extent of the damage is still to be confirmed but dozens of homes are thought to have been completely destroyed after rivers broke their banks in particular in Schuld municipality in the district of Ahrweiler. Hundreds of troops from the Bundeswehr (German army) have been deployed to help with clean-up operations.
Arizona, USA – The state of Arizona declared a state of emergency for areas affected by Monsoon storms and flash flooding. Flooding has damaged roads and homes, while one person has died in the floods in the Grand Canyon National Park. The City of Flagstaff was among the hardest hit areas. Torrents of water raced down the slopes surrounding the city, swamping streets from 13 July. Local observers said rain fell on burn scar areas in the hills surrounding Flagstaff and flowed swiftly towards the city below.
Uganda – Rivers have overflowed in Western Region of Uganda, flooding wide areas of Kasese District. Meanwhile rising levels of Lake Kyoga has caused hundreds of households to evacuate in Northern Region. At least 30 villages have been affected in Kasese District. Homes, livelihoods, crops and roads have all suffered damage. Water levels on Lake Kyoga have submerged coastal areas of Amolatar District in the Northern Region of Uganda.
Wildfires – Oregon, USA
The Bootleg Fire, has grown to over 227 000 acres. The fire has drawn firefighters from all corners of the state and has put thousands of Klamath County households under evacuation. While temperatures around Western Oregon and Western Washington have fallen back between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit in most places, southern Oregon is seeing triple-digit temperatures for an extended period.
Wildfires – Siberia
The city of Yakutsk, capital of Russia’s northeastern Yakutia region, has long been known as the coldest city on Earth. In winter, temperatures plummet to -40C, and it’s the only city to be built on permafrost. In July, temperatures are usually around 20C. But this year, record-breaking summer temperatures saw the mercury hit 35C in Yakutsk – in a heatwave that has fuelled wildfires in Siberia’s coniferous taiga forests.
Unlike wildfires that burn at lower latitudes, such as in California, which are often started by humans, Arctic wildfires are mostly started by lightning strikes. They are normally left to burn out unless they threaten human settlements. But Russian army planes have been sent to fight the fires that have raged across 800,000 hectares of forest in recent weeks.
Russia has the biggest area of tree cover in the world – at 882 million hectares. But it lost an area larger than Switzerland each year between 2011 and 2013 – mostly due to fires.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.3 earthquake hits the Izu Islands off Japan.
5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits eastern New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.
5.0 earthquake hits the Pacific-Antarctic ridge.
5.0 earthquake hits Taiwan.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 06e (Felicia), located approximately 1067 nm south of San Diego, is tracking westward at 08 knots.
In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 09w (Nine), located approximately 659 nm southeast of Kadena AFB, is tracked northwestward at 01 knot.
Newsbytes:
Turkey – Heavy rain on 14 July 2021 triggered flash floods and landslides in the Province of Rize in the Black Sea Region of northern Turkey. As of 15 July authorities in the province reported 6 people had died and 2 were missing. The districts of Muradiye, Güneysu and Çayeli were all badly affected. Houses collapsed or were buried under landslides and flood debris. Over 70 roads in the area have been closed.
Belgium – At least 14 people have died and 4 are missing following catastrophic flooding in Belgium that struck after torrential rain on 14 July 2021. The worst affected areas are in Liège Province and also the provinces of Namur and Luxembourg. The Vesdre, Ourthe, Amblève and Meuse rivers were experiencing historical floods.
Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan – Floods and mudslides caused by heavy rains swept away houses in two villages in the Aksy district in Jalal-Abad Region of western Kyrgyzstan on 12 July, 2021, close tho the border with Uzbekistan. At least 15 people across the two countries have died as a result. A state of emergency has been declared in Jany-Jol and Ak-Jol rural districts of Aksy region of Jalal-Abad oblast.
The Amazon rainforest – Carbon Sink to Carbon Factory
Forests absorb huge amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from Earth’s atmosphere, making them a key part of mitigating climate change. But humans may have already rendered the world’s largest rainforest useless in — and perhaps even detrimental to — the battle against greenhouse gases, a new study finds.
According to the study, published July 14 in the journal Nature, the Amazon rainforest is now emitting more than 1.1 billion tons (1 billion metric tons) of CO2, a greenhouse gas, a year, meaning the forest is officially releasing more carbon into the atmosphere than it is removing.
The carbon balance tipped due to “large-scale human disturbances” in the Amazon ecosystem, the researchers wrote in their study, with wildfires — many deliberately set to clear land for agriculture and industry — responsible for most of the CO2 emissions from the region. These fires also reinforce a feedback loop of warming, the team found, with more greenhouse gases contributing to longer, hotter dry seasons in the Amazon, which lead to more fires and more CO2 pollution.
More Heat Victims
Wildlife experts are expressing concern over recent avian behavioral changes and the deaths of birds due to excessive heat.
The international organization Hot Birds Research Project says that in Australia, the southern U.S. and Africa’s Kalahari Desert, the mounting episodes of excessive heat are having profound effects on birds.
Record heat in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal state last November saw scores of birds fall dead, the country’s first reported bird fatalities from heat.
Ornithologist Susan Cunningham of the Hot Birds Research Project says, “Some bird species are spending more time trying to stay cool as they deal with increased numbers of hot days. Birds are forced to shelter in the shade when they should be foraging.”
Global Temperature Extremes
The week’s hottest temperature was 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 degrees Celsius) in Death Valley, California.
The week’s coldest temperature was minus 98.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 72.2 degrees Celsius) at Vostok, Antarctica.
Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.
Wildfires – Oregon/California, USA
The Bootleg Fire, the largest wildfire currently burning in the U.S., has now torched more than 150 000 acres and has stymied firefighters with erratic winds and extremely dangerous fire behavior. Some of the evacuations were triggered by a second, smaller fire called the Log Fire to the northeast of the main blaze that expanded to nearly 5,000 acres (2,023 hectares) in the past 24 hours. The main fire has destroyed 21 homes in an area north of the Oregon-California border that’s been gripped by extreme drought. It was 7% contained as of Thursday.
The Dixie Fire was tiny when it began on Tuesday, but by Thursday morning it had burned 3.5 square miles (9 square kilometers) of brush and timber near the Feather River Canyon area of Butte County northeast of Paradise. It also moved into national forest land in neighboring Plumas County.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 7 July – 13 July 2021
Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that very small eruptive events were occasionally recorded at Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano). Crater incandescence was visible at night during 9-12 July. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale), and residents were warned to stay 2 km away from the crater.
Dukono – Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 8 and 11-13 July ash plumes from Dukono rose to 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N, NW, W, and SW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.
Ebeko – Paramushir Island (Russia) : According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, explosions during 2, 4, and 6-8 July produced ash plumes that rose as high as 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and SE. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images during 5-7 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Etna – Sicily (Italy) : INGV reported continuing Strombolian activity and two episodes of lava fountaining Etna’s Southeast Crater (SEC) during 5-11 July. The first episode began at 1130 on 6 July with Strombolian activity at SEC. The intensity and frequency of explosions progressively intensified and formed lava fountains. Ash plumes rose to 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S, causing ashfall in areas downwind. A small lava flow originated from the S side of the cone and traveled SW, stopping at 2,800 m elevation. During fieldwork on 7 July scientist observed deposits of bombs, 1 m in diameter, on the N flank and smaller bombs scattered farther away. A second episode began at 2100 on 8 July with Strombolian activity which again intensified and formed lava fountains. Ash plumes rose to 3.4 km (11,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE, causing ashfall in downwind areas. Lava flowed SW to 2,350 m elevation.
Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Karymsky was idenitifed in satellite images during 5-8 July and ash plumes were visible drifting 60 km W and E during 6-8 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : The fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 7-13 July. Lava fountaining and overflows from the fifth vent were sometimes visible, and lava from the crater flowed in tubes as well as on the surface. Visible activity at the vent occasionally paused for various lengths of time, though sub-surface lava likely continued flowing through the tube system. Weather conditions prevented views of the crater on some days and also created hazardous conditions. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange due to the lack of ash and tephra emissions, though IMO warned of the potential for lapilli and scoria fallout within a 650 m radius of the active vent. Authorities warned of increased gas emissions hazards.
Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that daily white-and-gray plumes from Lewotolok rose as high as 1.1 km and drifted SW, W, and NW during 6-12 July. Incandescent material was ejected from the summit vent on 6, 8, and 10 July; on 6 July material landed as far as 300 m away. The Darwin VAAC noted that on 7 July an ash plume rose 2.7 km (9,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E, based on satellite data and information from PVMBG. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.
Merapi – Central Java (Indonesia) : BPPTKG reported that the lava dome just below Merapi’s SW rim and the lava dome in the summit crater both remained active during 2-8 July. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1.815 million cubic meters by 8 July and continued to shed material down the flank. The volume of the summit lava dome was 2,741 million cubic meters. A total of 17 pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum of 2 km down the SW flank and as far as 1.5 km SE. As many as 125 incandescent avalanches traveled a maximum of 2 km down the SW flank and 1.8 km down the SE flank. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 5 km away from the summit.
Nevados de Chillan – Chile : SERNAGEOMIN reported continuing explosive and effusive activity at Nevados de Chillán’s Nicanor Crater during 16-30 June, alomg with increased sulfur dioxide emissions and thermal anomalies. Explosions generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1.4 km above the crater rim and crater incandescence at night; incandescent material was ejected as far as 500 m onto the N, E, and S flanks. The L5 and L6 lava flows continued to be active, with increased effusion rates during 17-19 and 27-28 June. During the periods of increased effusion rates the flow temperatures were higher, nighttime incandescence was more intense, emissions rose higher, and more pyroclastic flows were recorded. The pyroclastic flows traveled less than 500 m down the NE flank and were sourced from collapses at the sides of L6 and the front of L5. The average temperature was 131 degrees Celsius with a maximum of 174 degrees for L5 and an average of 163 degrees Celsius with a maximum of 181 degrees for L6. Temperatures at the vents at Nicanor Crater were as high as 360 degrees Celsius during explosive phases. Satellite images indicated that the L5 lava flow was 1,033 m long and L6 was 894 m long, and that the distal end of L6 had thickened. The average sulfur dioxide emission rate was 694 (± 43) tons/day, reaching a high value of 903 on 19 June. There was a total of 35 thermal anomalies. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, the second lowest level on a four-colour scale. ONEMI stated that Alert Level Yellow (the middle level on a three-colour scale) remained in place for the communities of Pinto and Coihueco, noting that the public should stay at least 2 km away from the crater.
Popocatepetl – Mexico : CENAPRED reported that each day during 6-13 July there were 47-112 steam-and-gas emissions from Popocatépetl. Some emissions contained ash during 8-13 July. Almost daily periods of low-amplitude tremor lasted from 10 minutes to five hours. A few volcano-tectonic earthquakes were recorded. Crater incandescence was visible at night during 12-13 July. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, Phase Two (middle level on a three-colour scale).
Semeru – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : Semeru continued to erupt during 7-13 July. Inclement weather often prevented visual observations, though a gray-and-white ash plume was seen rising 500 m above the summit and drifting SW on 6 July. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 1 km and extensions to 5 km in the SSE sector.
Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that continuous volcanic tremor at Semisopochnoi began at 1200 on 12 July and explosive activity was recorded by the infrasound network. Emissions began at 1300 and lasted tens of minutes; a sulfur dioxide gas plume possibly containing ash was identified in satellite images drifting S at an altitude less than 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. The Aviation colour Code was raised to Orange and the Volcano Alert Level was raised to Watch. Volcanic tremor decreased to low levels after several hours.
Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 2-9 July. A plume of re-suspended ash drifted 90 km E during 6-7 July. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Sinabung – Indonesia : PVMBG reported that on most days during 6-13 July white gas-and-steam plumes from Sinabung rose as high as 500 m above the summit. At 0925 on 13 July an eruptive or collapse event produced an ash plume that rose 500 m and drifted ESE. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.
Veniaminof – United States : AVO changed both the Aviation colour Code and Volcano Alert Level for Veniaminof to Green and Normal, respectively, on 8 July, noting that seismic stations were back online. The monitoring network consists of local and regional seismic stations, regional infrasound networks, lightning detection, and satellite image monitoring.
