Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.4 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.1 earthquake hits Antofagasta, Chile.
5.1 earthquake hits the Sannta Cruz Islands.
Two 5.0 earthquakes hit the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
There are no current tropical storms.
Newsbytes:
ST Vincent and Grenadines – Heavy rain has caused floods, landslides and lahars (volcanic mudflows) in several areas the Caribbean island country of St Vincent and the Grenadines. As of 30 April the worst affected areas were in parts of the main island of St Vincent. NEMO reported rainfall accumulations ranging from 75 to 125 mm during a 6 hour period on 29 April 2021. Flooding brought traffic to a standstill after roads were swamped in areas around the capital Kingstown. Landslides blocked roads on the city’s outskirts. At least 2 houses collapsed and several others were damaged in areas around the capital.
Polar Drift
Earth’s axis is being shifted by the human activities causing the current climate emergency and the redistribution of water resources through the pumping of groundwater for irrigation.
An international team of researchers says the shift started in the 1990s when global heating began to melt glaciers, sending much of the runoff into the oceans. Earth’s axis naturally drifts a little bit each year due to changes in winds, ocean currents and atmospheric pressures. But the redistribution of water from land to the oceans accelerated the drift between 1995 and 2020 by about 17 times. Vincent Humphrey of the University of Zurich says the drift is tiny and imperceptible to humans.
Melting Hazards
Boulders and rocks long frozen in place high across the world’s mountainous regions are now tumbling downslope due to the glacial melt brought on by global heating.
A tragic example occurred in February when rock and ice broke loose from a Himalayan peak, killed more than 200 people and destroyed a hydroelectric dam. Researchers in Switzerland have begun releasing “test rocks” from high in the Alps to better understand the dangers posed to humans and the landscape by the growing phenomenon. “Where a rock will land, how it will bounce, how high it will jump … we can answer all that,” said physicist Andrin Caviezel, one of the scientists involved in the experiments.
Lion Famine – Namibia
A protracted drought and unbridled livestock grazing, which have parched parts of Namibia, are also causing desert-adapted lions to perish or appear emaciated near human settlements in the southwest African nation.
There was an outcry after images of an emaciated lioness, too weak to get up next to a goat enclosure on a communal farm, appeared on social media. Philip Stander of Desert Lion Conservation told The Namibian daily that the hyper-arid conditions have caused several of the big cats to either die from starvation or be euthanized by the environment ministry.
Global Temperature Extremes
The week’s hottest temperature was 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46.1 degrees Celsius) in Kayes, Mali.
The week’s coldest temperature was minus 93.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 69.4 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.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 21 April 2021 – 27 April 2021
Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that during 19-26 April incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible nightly. There was a total of 16 explosions, producing ash plumes that rose as high as 2.3 km above the summit and ejected bombs 1-1.3 km away from the crater. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was somewhat high at 1,800 tons per day on 21 April. An explosion at 0109 on 25 April produced what was initially thought to be a pyroclastic flow, triggering JMA to warn residents beyond a 2-km radius to be cautious and vigilant. Scientists conducting field observations later that day did not observe pyroclastic flow deposits or damaged vegetation, and concluded that the plume phenomenon was generated by winds. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale), and residents were warned to stay 2 km away from the crater.
Ebeko – Paramushir Island (Russia) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 16-18 and 22 April that sent ash plumes to 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE, E, and SW. Ash fell in Severo-Kurilsk on 16 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Etna – Sicily (Italy) : INGV reported that during 19-25 April activity at Etna was mainly characterized by gas emissions rising from the summit craters, though inclement weather conditions often prevented visual observations. Bocca Nuova in particular produced frequent steam puffs. A strong explosion at 0030 on 25 April from the E vent of Southeast Crater (SEC) ejected incandescent material up to 350 m above the crater rim. An ash plume dispersed to the S.
Fuego – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that 5-14 explosions were recorded per hour during 21-27 April at Fuego, generating ash plumes as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim. Shock waves rattled buildings around the volcano, especially in areas as far as 20 km W and SW. Block avalanches descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda drainages, often reaching vegetated areas. Ashfall was reported on most days 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), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), and San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW). Explosions ejected incandescent material 100-400 m above the summit almost daily.
Kilauea – Hawaiian Islands (USA) : HVO reported that the W vent on the inner NW wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued to supply the lava lake during 21-27 April. Lava flowed at a low rate from the main vent into the lake through crusted-over channels and submerged inlets. The depth of the lake was about 226-227 m and lava continued to circulate in the W part, though the active area continued to shrink; the E half of the lake remained solidified. Lava sometimes overflowed the margins of the lake. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was 350, 550, 300, and 350 tons/day on 21, 22, 23, and 24 April, respectively. The rates were the lowest measured during the eruption, though elevated above the levels recorded in the months before the start of the eruption (20 December 2020). The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.
Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : IMO reported that the fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 21-27 April. A M 4.1 earthquake was recorded at 2305 on 21 April about 6 km WSW of the fissures and followed by several aftershocks; it was the largest on the Reykjanes Peninsula since 15 March, before the eruption began. The average lava-flow rate was calculated by the University of Iceland’s Institute of Earth Sciences using photographs most recently collected during an overflight on 26 April. They reported that during the previous five days the flow rate from all of the active craters averaged just over 6 cubic meters per second; the average rate during the 38 days of the eruption was 5.6 cubic meters per second. The area of the flow field was 1.13 square kilometers, the total volume was over 18.4 million cubic meters, with an average thickness of just over 16 m. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange due to the lack of ash and tephra emissions.
Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolok continued during 20-27 April. Black, gray, and white plumes rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted E, SE, and W on most days. 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 continued to extrude lava during 16-22 April. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1,069,600 cubic meters on 21 April, with a growth rate of about 11,900 cubic meters per day; the dome continued to shed material down the flank. A total of nine pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum of 1.8 km down the SW flank. Incandescent avalanches, recorded 144 times, traveled as far as 1.6 km down the SW flank and twice down the SE flank as far as 400 m. The volume of the summit lava dome was 1,794,000 cubic meters on 22 April. 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.
Pacaya – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 20-21 April explosions at Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater generated minor gas-and-ash plumes that rose 250 m above the summit and drifted S and SW. The lava flow on the SW flank continued to be active, though did not advance. White gas plumes were visible the next day rising as high as 200 m. On 23 April lava effusion ceased. The lava flows on the SW flank remained hot and gas plumes rose from parts of the flow; no advancement was visible through 27 April. Gray-and-white emissions were visible during 24-27 April, rising 100-200 m above the summit and dispersing S and SW. Occasional minor explosions ejected incandescent material 50-150 m high during 26-27 April.
Semeru – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 21-22 and 24-25 April ash plumes from Semeru rose 500-700 m above the summit and drifted SW, S, and SE. 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.
Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 16-23 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Sinabung – Indonesia : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Sinabung continued during 21-27 April. Weather conditions sometimes prevented visual observations of the volcano, though white fumarolic plumes were visible almost daily rising as high as 700 m above the summit and drifted E and SE. Pyroclastic flows traveled 2 km on 21 April. Avalanches of material traveled 1 km E and SE during 23-24 April. Ash plumes rose 2 km above the summit on 24 April and to 1 km on 25 April, drifting ESE both days. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 3 km and extensions to 5 km in the SE sector and 4 km in the NE sector.
Stromboli – Aeolian Islands (Italy) : INGV reported that during 19-25 April activity at Stromboli was characterized by ongoing explosive activity from Area N (North Crater area) and in Area C-S (South-Central Crater area), though sometime weather conditions prevented visual observations. Explosions from two vents in the N1 vent (Area N) ejected lapilli and bombs 250 m high, and produced minor ash emissions. Explosions at N2 vents (Area N) averaged 11-14 events per hour. Periods of visible spattering were most notable on 24 April. Explosions from at least three vents in Area C-S occurred at a rate of 1-5 events per hour and ejected coarse material more than 250 m high.
Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was occasionally visible at night during 16-23 April. Five explosions generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1.7 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 600 m away. The Alert Level remained at 2 and the public was warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.
Villarrica – Chile : SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 1-15 April gas-and-steam emissions with no or very small amounts of ash rose from Villarrica to heights less than 1.2 km above the crater rim. Crater incandescence was not visible at night and sulfur dioxide emissions were low. Observations from multiple sources suggested that the lava lake level was lower, decreasing the likelihood that material ejected by minor explosions would reach beyond 100 m from the crater. The Alert Level was lowered to Green on 23 April, the lowest level on a four-colour scale. ONEMI declared a “Preventative Early Warning” for the municipalities of Villarrica, Pucón (16 km N), Curarrehue, and the commune of Panguipulli, and the exclusion zone for the public of 100 m around the crater.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.7 earthquake hits the Krmedec Islands.
5.5 earthquake hits Bio-Bio, Chile.
5.5 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.4 earthquake hits off the east coast of North Island, New Zealand.
5.2 earthquake hits off the coast of Oregon, USA.
5.1 earthquake hits Guerrero, Mexico.
5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.
Two 5.0 earthquakes hit off the coast of Oregon, USA.
5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Pagan region, North Mariana Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits southern Peru.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
There are no current tropical storms.
Newsbytes:
Philippines – Hundreds of people have moved from their homes to evacuations centres after flash flooding in parts of Davao City. Heavy rains caused by a localized thunderstorm on 26 April triggered flooding in Bunawan and Buhangin-B districts. As many as 3,280 people were affected by the flooding incident in four and 162 families or 419 people evacuated to temporary shelter in 5 evacuation centres. Over 265 mm of rain fell at Davao Airport in 24 hours to 27 April 2021.
Massive DDT Dumping Ground off California Coast
The sea bottom near southern California has been hiding a very dirty secret: decades of discarded chemicals in thousands of barrels. And the toxic debris field is even bigger than anyone expected, containing at least 27,000 drums of DDT and industrial waste, scientists recently discovered.
High concentrations of DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, an insecticide that was widely used for pest control during the 1940s and 1950s) were previously detected in ocean sediments between the Los Angeles coast and Catalina Island, in 2011 and 2013. At the time, scientists who searched the seafloor in the area identified 60 barrels (possibly containing DDT or other waste) and found DDT contamination in sediments, but the full extent of the area’s contamination was unknown.
Now, a research expedition presents a clearer picture of the deep-sea dump site. Their findings reveal a stretch of ocean bottom studded with at least 27,000 industrial waste barrels — and possibly as many as 100,000.
Glaciers are Shrinking
Earth’s glaciers are shrinking, and in the past 20 years, the rate of shrinkage has steadily sped up, according to a new study of nearly every glacier on the planet.
Glaciers mostly lose mass through ice melt, but they also shrink due to other processes, such as sublimation, where water evaporates directly from the ice, and calving, where large chunks of ice break off the edge of a glacier, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). By tracking how quickly glaciers are shrinking, scientists can better predict how quickly sea levels may rise, particularly as climate change drives up average global temperatures.
The team found that, between 2000 and 2019, glaciers collectively lost an average of 293.7 billion tons (267 billion metric tonnes) of mass per year, give or take 17.6 billion tons (16 billion metric tonnes); this accounts for about 21% of the observed sea-level rise in that time frame.
Wildfires – Siberia
Russian emergency services have reported an abnormally high number of fires in the Omsk oblast of southwest Siberia. On April 22, 2021, the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite captured this image of fires in the region. As of April 28, smoke from the fires was still visible.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 21 April 2021 – 27 April 2021
Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a weak thermal anomaly over Karymsky was visible in satellite images 16-17 and 22 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Piton de la Fournaise – Reunion Island (France) : OVPF reported that the eruption at Piton de la Fournaise continued during 21-27 April, though inclement weather conditions obscured visual observations most of the week. The average lava-flow rate was between 1.2 and 8.3 cubic meters per second during 16-23 April. The flow rates were estimated based on the gas-emission rates, though weather conditions may have affected the accuracy of the measurements. Lava continued to mostly flow in lava tubes; some flows thickened and parts of the flow field widened. The longest flow was 3.2 km long and the maximum width was 750 m, unchanged from the previous week. The flow field was mapped using a satellite image acquired on 24 April. The Alert Level remained at 2-2.
Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : Eruptive activity at Semisopochnoi gradually increased during 21-22 April based on satellite and infrasound data; ash emissions were first seen in satellite images at 1800 on 21 April and were continuous at least through 1348 on 22 April. Plumes rose to 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 80 km S. Sulfur dioxide emissions were also detected in satellite images on 22 April. Cloud cover mostly obscured views during 23-24 April, though possible minor ash emissions were sometimes visible. Low-level ash plumes drifting S were occasionally identified in satellite images during 24-26 April. Dense weather clouds prevented views for most of 26 April and the next day. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.
Soufriere St. Vincent – St. Vincent : University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) reported that eruptive activity at Soufrière St. Vincent (often simply referred to as “La Soufriere”) was relatively low during 21-27 April with the exception of one explosive period. During 20-21 April seismicity was characterized by a few rockfalls and volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquakes, and an increasing number of small long-period (LP) and hybrid earthquakes. Sulfur dioxide emissions were again measured from a boat near the W coast, revealing a flux of 350 tons per day. At around 1108 on 22 April explosions produced an ash plume that rose as high as 8 km (26,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted mainly N over the sea. High-level seismic tremor began at 1109 and lasted for about 20 minutes. Pyroclastic flows were generated early in the eruption and traveled down the W flank, reaching the sea within five minutes. Lahar signals were recorded later that day at about 2100. According to National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) the total number of displaced people was 13,154 by 21 April, with 6,208 people in 85 public shelters and 6,790 people (1,618 families) in private shelters. There were no casualties caused by the eruption. In a 22 April press release the Argyle International Airport announced that the ash cleanup was ongoing and that the Cargo Terminal was scheduled to open the next day. Seismicity dropped to low levels after the explosive event and remained at low levels through 27 April; only a few LP, hybrid and VT earthquakes were recorded. On 23 April the sulfur dioxide flux was 992 tons per day, recorded again from the W coast. A diffuse steam plume rose from the crater on 24 April. Satellite data most recently from 24 April, and seismic data suggested likely cycles of crater dome growth and destruction. During an overflight on 26 April scientists observed white steam plumes rising from several locations on the crater floor, though visibility was poor. No lava dome was visible, but a possible spine-like protrusion was seen through the clouds. Seismic signals indicating lahars were again recorded. Lahars in the Red and Orange zones were recorded by the seismic network at 0900 and 1000 on 27 April, during and after rainfall. The volcano Alert Level remained at Red.
Veniaminof – United States : AVO reported that eruptive activity at Veniaminof had declined during the previous few weeks; no emissions were visible after ash emissions on 5 April and seismicity continued to decline. On 21 April the Volcano Alert Level was lowered to Advisory and the Aviation colour Code was lowered to Yellow.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.2 earthquake hits Assam, India.
5.5 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
Two 5.3 earthquakes hit the Kermedec Islands.
5.3 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.
Two 5.1 earthquakes hit the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the southern mid-Atlantic ridge.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
There are no current tropical storms.
Newsbytes:
Saudi Arabia – Torrential rainfall flooded areas of Mecca in Saudi Arabia on 27 April 2021. A sudden storm during the afternoon caused flooding across the city. Images and videos shared on Social Media showed streets were inundated and vehicles swept away by fast-flowing flood waters. Saudi Civil Defence said it has been assisting in affected areas in the city of Mecca (also Makkah) and areas of Mecca Region, including the rescue of motorists in vehicles trapped in flood water.
Colombia – The overflowing Telembí river caused flooding in the municipality of Barbacoas in Nariño Department, western Colombia from 21 April 2021. The flooding came after a period of heavy rainfall in the region. According to the local government, 23 areas of the municipality were flooded. Damage to roads and homes was reported and 1,700 families were affected.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Lassa fever – Nigeria
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported six additional confirmed Lassa fever cases last week, bringing the country total to 247 cases this year to date. 50 deaths from confirmed cases, or 20 percent of the total, were reported.
Dengue Fever – Cook Islands
The Cook Islands Ministry of Health (Te Marae Ora) reports that the number of probable and confirmed dengue fever virus-type 2 (DEN-2) has risen to 162 since the outbreak was declared on February 2. Thirty-four people required hospitalization for their illness. No deaths have been attributed to dengue.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.1 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.
5.4 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.
5.4 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.
5.3 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.2 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.1 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.
5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits Java, Indonesia.
5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the South Shetland Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Rota region, North Mariana Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
There are no current tropical storms.
Newsbytes:
Kenya – Hundreds of families have been displaced by flooding in western Kenya over the last few days. Heavy rains caused devastation in Kakelo Kakoth sub-location in Migori county from 23 April 2021. Around 200 households were affected. Flooding affected other areas of the county, with around 100 families displaced in Karapolo and West Kanyuor. Floods have also destroyed crops and roads in the area.
Wildfires – India
Indian Air Force helicopters with Bambi Buckets have been pressed into service to put out an Australia-type bushfire raging for two days in Mizoram’s Lunglei district. Late on Sunday night, the fire had spread to Lunglei town and villages in the adjoining district of Lawngtlai,
The fire was sparked around 7 a.m. on Saturday possibly by some villagers who were trying to clear the hills near Lunglei town, possibly for shifting cultivation common in the hills of Northeast India. It snowballed into a raging bushfire spreading to ten village council areas in and around Lunglei town. By Sunday night, it had spread to three rural development blocks of Lawngtlai district.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.1 earthquake hits Fiji.
5.3 earthquake hits near the coast of southern Peru.
5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
There are no current tropical storms.
Newsbytes:
Bolivia – Overflowing rivers have caused flooding in several areas of Cochabamba Department in central Bolivia over the last few days. Civil Defence and the Bolivian Navy evacuated families in the municipality of Ivirgarzama and surrounding areas after flooding began from late 23 April 2021. Flooding also blocked parts of the Cochabamba – Santa Cruz highway (National Route 4) at the Chimoré-Ivirgarzama sector, causing major transport disruptions. A bus and several other vehicles were trapped in the waters and than 50 passengers and motorists had to be rescued. Other municipalities in the department have also been affected according to the regional government. Around 1,000 families were affected in the municipality of Omereque and 500 families in Raqaypampa municipality. Over 900 hectares of crops were also damaged in the two municipalities. Parts of Aiquile municipality were also flooded.
Brazil – Authorities in the municipality of Oriximiná in the state of Pará, northern Brazil, declared an emergency on 22 April after days of flooding. Flooding first struck around 19 April 2021 after the Trombetas river broke its banks. As of 22 April, the municipal government said flooding approximately 14,020 people are directly affected. An estimated 3,000 homes were flooded and affected in some way. In the city of Oriximiná, streets, businesses, public buildings and infrastructure also suffered damage. Surrounding rural areas along the river also experienced flooding. The municipal government said dozens of communities were affected, with homes, schools, livestock and crops damaged.
Burundi – The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reported on 25 April 2021 that flooding from the rising Lake Tanganyika had affected thousands of families in areas of Burundi over the last few weeks. Levels of the lake have been slowly rising since February 2021. Heavy rainfall since the start of April has worsened the situation with further rainfall predicted until mid-May. As of 19 April 2021, the level of Lake Tanganyika at the port of Bujumbura stood at 776.45 metres above sea level. The average level is 772.7 metres. Media said if the level exceeds 777 metres, areas around Bujumbura port will be flooded.
Wildfires – Ireland
In Northern Ireland a fire is during in the Mournes Mountains just south of Newcastle. After three days, firefighters have brought the Slieve Donard blaze under control after it burned an area “the size of 500 football pitches,” about 880 acres.
Two fires have burned about one-third of Killarney National Park, approximately 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres) are blackened according to an estimate by the park’s Chief Fire Officer.
Wildfires – Michigan, USA
A controlled burn that turned into a 6,100-acre wildfire in Michigan was 32% contained Saturday and not growing, a U.S. Forest Service spokesman said. The fire was in Iosco County, which has part of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, roughly 80 miles north of Bay City. Some residents were urged to evacuate Friday, but those warnings were subsequently lifted.
Wildfires – Arizona, USA
A wildfire is “raging out of control” in the Hualapai Mountains near Pine Lake, Arizona, according to officials. The blaze, named the Flag Fire, is about 600 acres in size. Officials in the county issued evacuation orders for about 200 residents of Pine Lake.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.1 earthquake hits the Owen Fracture zone.
5.0 earthquake hits near the north coast of Papua, Indonesia.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 438 nm west-southwest of Iwo To, Japan, is tracking east-southeastward at 12 knots.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Dengue Fever
Philippines – The General Santos City government is warning the public about the rise in dengue fever. Since the beginning of the year, 503 cases, including six deaths have been recorded.
Kenya – Public health officials in Mombasa, Kenya are reporting an outbreak of dengue fever. Increased cases of fever in adults and children visiting hospitals in the six sub-counties in Mombasa. Officials report 24 dengue fever cases have been laboratory confirmed. No deaths have been reported.
Human-to-cat COVID-19 transmission in the UK
A team of scientists at the University of Glasgow has identified two known cases of human-to-cat COVID-19 transmission in the UK.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
6.1 earthquake hits Fiji.
5.1 earthquake hits the Rat Islands in the Aleutian Islands.
5.1 earthquake hits Fiji.
5.0 earthquake hits the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.
5.0 earthquake hits the central mid-Atlantic ridge,
5.0 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.
5.0 earthquake hits the South Shetland Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits offshore Oaxaca, Mexico.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 531 nm west-southwest of Iwo To, Japan, is tracking east-southeastward at 07 knots.
In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 29s (jobo), located approximately 103 nm southeast of Dar es Salaam. Tanzania, is tracking westward at 08 knots.
Newsbytes:
Guatemala – The disaster agency in Guatemala (CONRED) reported heavy rain caused flooding and landslides parts of Quiché Department over the last few days. Over 165 homes have been damaged and 1,500 people displaced. The heavy rain caused 4 landslides in Chicamán municipality and 2 in Uspantán municipality, where 3 incidents of flooding were also reported. Flooding from the La Taña river damaged around 100 homes in La Taña village, Uspantán, forcing 750 people to evacuate.
White-Nose Syndrome – Bats
White-nose syndrome has killed over 90% of northern long-eared, little brown and tri-colored bat populations in fewer than 10 years, according to a new study published in Conservation Biology. White-nose syndrome is a disease that affects hibernating bats and is caused by an invasive, cold-loving fungus. The fungus grows on bats’ skin, disturbing their hibernation and resulting in dehydration, starvation and often death. First documented in New York in 2006, white-nose syndrome has since spread to 35 states and seven Canadian provinces and has been confirmed in 12 North American bat species.
There is no known cure for white-nose syndrome, but scientists worldwide are working together to study the disease and determine how it can be controlled. Bats eat insects and are critical pest controllers. In the United States alone, bats are estimated to save farmers at least $3.7 billion per year in pest control services. The loss of so many nighttime insect predators can have cascading effects on the environment, with potential to affect forestry, agriculture and human health.
Numerous States have enacted protections for the bats, taking measures to ensure the disease does not spread further.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
No 5+ magnitude earthquakes have been reported so far today.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 220 nm south-southeast of Kadena AFB. Japan, is tracking northeastward at 12 knots.
In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 29s (jobo), located approximately 618 nm north-northwest of Antananarivo, Madagascar, is tracking west-northwestward at 08 knots.
Core Discovery
Scientists say they have found evidence of a new, deeper inner core of the planet, which they say could point to an unknown and dramatic event in Earth’s geologic history.
“Traditionally, we’ve been taught the Earth has four main layers: the crust, the mantle, the outer core and the inner core,” said Australian National University geophysicist and lead researcher Joanne Stephenson.
The newly discovered “innermost inner core” was revealed by using a search algorithm to examine decades of seismic data on how different levels of the Earth cause sound waves to slow down.
Whitest White Paint
Painting rooftops with a new type of super-reflective white paint could help reduce the effects of global heating in buildings and curb the need for air conditioning.
Researchers at Purdue University say the paint they made with barium sulphate pigment rather than conventional titanium dioxide does not absorb any UV light and reflects 98% of all sunlight.
Roofs have been painted white for centuries, but traditional paint reflects only about 80-90% of sunlight and still absorbs the warming UV light. While further tests for durability are needed, the developers say the super-white paint could be on the market within two years at a price comparable to conventional products.
Global Temperature Extremes
The week’s hottest temperature was 114 degrees Fahrenheit (45.6 degrees Celsius) in Matam, Senegal.
The week’s coldest temperature was minus 96.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 71.1 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.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Bird Flu – Asia
China – Two additional human avian influenza A(H9N2) infections were reported in China, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Cambodia – Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP) reported in their avian influenza update a human case of avian influenza A(H9N2)in Cambodia. The case, a 3-year-old boy, was reported on April 2, 2021.
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 14 April 2021 – 20 April 2021
Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that during 12-19 April incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible nightly. There was a total of nine explosions and one eruptive event. Ash plumes rose 1-2 km above the summit and bombs were ejected 800-1,300 m away from the crater. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was high at 2,400 tons per day on 12 April. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).
Dukono – Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 13-20 April ash plumes from Dukono rose to 2.1-2.4 km (7,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and NE. 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) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 9-16 April that sent ash plumes to 3.6 km (11,800 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Kadovar – Papua New Guinea : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 15 April ash plumes from Kadovar rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.
Kilauea – Hawaiian Islands (USA : HVO reported that the W vent on the inner NW wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued to supply the lava lake during 14-20 April. Lava flowed at a low rate from the main vent into the lake through crusted-over channels and submerged inlets. The depth of the lake was about 226-227 m and lava continued to circulate in the W part, though the active area continued to shrink; the E half of the lake remained solidified. Lava sometimes overflowed the margins of the lake. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was 950 tons/day on 14 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.
Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolok continued during 13-19 April. Gray-and-white ash plumes rose as high as 1.5 km above the summit and drifted E and W. Rumbling was often audible. Incandescent material was ejected 300-1,000 m above the summit during 14-16 April. Incandescent material was ejected to the E during 9 and 11-12 April. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 4 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 continued to extrude lava during 9-15 April. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1,024,800 cubic meters on 15 April, with a growth rate of about 12,200 cubic meters per day, and continued to shed material down the flank. A total of six pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum of 1.8 km down the SW flank. Incandescent avalanches, recorded 119 times, traveled as far as 1.5 km down the SW flank. The volume of the summit lava dome was 1,681,000 cubic meters on 14 April. 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.
Popocatepetl – Mexico : CENAPRED reported that each day during 13-20 April there were 14-34 steam, gas, and ash emissions from Popocatépetl and periods of tremor lasting from 5-15 hours. Two volcanic earthquakes were recorded at 1054 and 2354 on 16 April. Minor crater incandescence was visible overnight during 17-18 April. A M 1.3 volcano-tectonic earthquake was recorded at 2057 on 18 April. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, Phase Two (middle level on a three-colour scale).
Raung – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that gray-and-white ash plumes rose 50-400 m above Raung’s summit during 13-14 April and drifted N, NE, E, and S. Emissions were white and rose as high as 400 m during 15-16 and 19 April. Weather conditions prented visual observations on some days. 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.
Sabancaya – Peru : Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP) reported a daily average of 91 explosions at Sabancaya during 12-18 April. Gas-and-ash plumes rose as high as 2.3 km above the summit and drifted S, SW, NW, and N. Eight thermal anomalies originating from the lava dome in the summit crater were identified in satellite data. Minor inflation continued to be detected near Hualca Hualca (4 km N). The Alert Level remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale) and the public were warned to stay outside of a 12-km radius.
Sangay – Ecuador : IG reported a high level of activity at Sangay during 13-20 April. Seismicity was characterized by daily explosions, long-period earthquakes, lahar events, and signals indicating emissions. Weather clouds and rain often prevented visual observations of the volcano, though based on the Washington VAAC and webcam images, ash plumes were visible during 13-14 and 17-20 April rising 600-2,400 m above the summit and drifting mainly N, NW, and W. The seismic network occasionally recorded lahar signals, especially during 14-16 April. Ashfall was reported in Chimborazo 
and Guamote (40 km WNW) on 17 April, and crater incandescence was visible through the night of 19-20 April.
Semeru – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that at 0650 on 19 April an ash plume from Semeru rose 400 m above the summit and drifted W. 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.
Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 9-16 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Sinabung – Indonesia : PVMBG reported that on 13 April eruptive events at Sinabung generated ash plumes that rose 500-1,600 m above the summit. Avalanches of material traveled 1-1.5 km. On 14 April gray ash plumes rose 500 m above the summit and avalanches traveled 500-700 m down the E and SE flanks. During 15-20 April white plumes were often seen rising as high as 700 m, though weather conditions sometimes prevented visual observations. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 3 km and extensions to 5 km in the SE sector and 4 km in the NE sector.
Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was visible at night during 9-16 April. Seven explosions generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1.5 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 400 m away. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). The Alert Level remained at 2 and the public was warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.
Tanaga – Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that communication was reestablished with two seismic stations on Tanaga, making a total of four operational stations. On 19 April AVO changed both the Aviation colour Code and the Volcano Alert Level to Green and Normal, respectively, reflecting the resumption of seismically monitoring unrest.
Ugashik-Peulik – United States : AVO reported a loss of operation and communication with seismic stations that monitor Ugashik-Peulik, likely caused by snow cover. Both the Aviation colour Code and the Volcano Alert Level were changed to Unassigned on 19 April, reflecting the inability to locate earthquakes to detect unrest. Monitoring will continue with the remaining seismic stations, regional infrasound networks, lightning detection, and satellite images.
Ukinrek Maars – United States : AVO reported a loss of operation and communication with seismic stations that monitor Ukinrek-Maars, likely caused by snow cover. Both the Aviation colour Code and the Volcano Alert Level were changed to Unassigned on 19 April, reflecting the inability to locate earthquakes to detect unrest. Monitoring will continue with the remaining seismic stations, regional infrasound networks, lightning detection, and satellite images.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.6 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 397 nm south-southwest of Kadena AFB. Japan, is tracking north-northeastward at 07 knots.
In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 29s (jobo), located approximately 513 nm north of Antananarivo, Madagascar, is tracking west-southwestward at 08 knots.
Newsbytes:
El Salvador – The government and disaster authorities in El Salvador reported heavy rain and storms across the country from 19 April 2021, resulting in damages, power cuts, floods and evacuations. 70.8mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 20 April in El Jocote, San Matías, La Libertad Department. The following day 85.4 mm of rain fell in La Union, La Unión Department, and 108.4 mm in Jalponga, La Paz, El Salvador Department.
Peru – Flooding in the central regions of Junín and Cusco has damaged or destroyed around 35 homes as well as roads, a bridge and a school. Flooding occurred after heavy rainfall from around 19 April 2021. 68mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 20 April in Pichari town, capital of the Pichari District, La Convención Province, Cusco Region.
Alpine Snow Cover Melting Earlier
Snow cover in the Alps has been melting almost three days earlier per decade since the 1960s. This trend is temperature-related and cannot be compensated by heavier snowfall. By the end of the century, snow cover at 2,500 meters could disappear a month earlier than today, as simulations by environmental scientists at the University of Basel demonstrate.
The data showed that between 1958 and 2019, snow cover between 1,000 and 2,500 meters melted an average of 2.8 days earlier every decade. This shift was not linear, but was particularly strong in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This corresponds to strong temperature increases in this time period that have been verified by climate research.
The early snowmelt could extend the growing season of alpine plants by about a third. As is known from studies of other alpine plant species, an earlier start to the growing season leads to fewer flowers, less leaf growth and a lower survival rate due to the higher risk of frost.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 14 April 2021 – 20 April 2021
Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Karymsky was visible in satellite images during 9-12 April; weather conditions obscured views during 13-16 April. An explosion at 1745 on 11 April produced ash plumes that rose to 4 km (13,100 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 112 km SSE. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : IMO reported that the fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 14-20 April. Lava flowed from about eight vents and the flow field continued to expand; on 14 April a new hiking trail (“A”) had been covered. Volcanic gas emissions were at dangerous levels during 14-15 April so the eruption site was closed to the public. At about 1500 on 17 April a new vent was confirmed to have opened. It was small and close to another crater, possibly the one that had opened on 13 April. Lava was not flowing from the northernmost crater (the first that had opened outside Geldingadalur) during 18-20 April. The eruption had been ongoing for 30 days by 17 April. Based on a report from University of Iceland’s Institute of Earth Sciences, the average lava-flow rate during the first 17 days of the eruption was 4.5-5 cubic meters per second but had increased to 7 cubic meters per second over the previous 13 days. During 12-18 April the flow rate was closer to 8 cubic meters per second, a slight increase over the recent average. By 19 April the area of the flow field was 0.9 square kilometers and the total volume was over 14 million cubic meters. IMO warned visitors that new fissures could open without adequate visible warning, especially in an area by Litla-Hrút, just S of Keilir, `where seismicity was concentrated. They also warned of increased gas emissions hazards. The Aviation colour Code remained Orange due to the lack of ash and tephra emissions.
Piton de la Fournaise – Reunion Island (France) : OVPF reported that the eruption at Piton de la Fournaise continued during 14-20 April. Lava fountaining was visible from both cones on most days, though sometimes inclement weather prevented visual observations of the eruption site. During an overflight on 16 April scientists observed that the most distal part of the lava flows had stopped advancing. The larger and more northern cone was 28 m high. The cone at a lower elevation, about 100 m away, had two vents. The smaller cone fed lava flows that traveled though tubes and emerged after 100 m, continuing to advance as many surficial breakout flows. The total length of the flow field was about 3.5 km and the maximum width was 750 m. Sulfur dioxide emissions gradually increased between 400 and 859 tonnes per day during 9-12 April, peaked at 4,054 tonnes per day on 13 April, and then dropped to 2,100 tonnes per day on 14 April. OVPF estimated lava-flow rates based on the gas-emission rates, noting that weather conditions could affect the accuracy of the measurements. They estimated that the average flow rate in cubic meters per second was 20 during 9-10 April, an average of 24 with a maximum value of 59 on 13 April, 12.5 on 14 April, and 6.5-8.3 during 16-19 April. The Alert Level was raised to 2-2.
Soufriere St. Vincent – St. Vincent : University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) and National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) reported that the explosive eruption at Soufrière St. Vincent (often simply referred to as “La Soufriere”) continued during 14-20 April, though at a decreasing frequency. Explosions and pyroclastic flows were reported on 13 April, as well as lahars in the Sandy Bay area. During 14 April seismicity continued to be characterized by episodes of tremor, about 13-15 hours apart, separated by swarms of small, long-period (LP) earthquakes. An episode of tremor that began at 1135 was associated with increased explosive activity, though the emissions were gas rich and less energetic than previous events. Another episode of tremor began at 0230 on 15 April along with increased venting. Almost constant swarms of long-period and hybrid events were recorded through the day, punctuated by three brief episodes (less than 30 minutes) of low-level tremor. An episode of tremor began at 2100 and lasted 40 minutes, and was possibly associated with a minor increase in venting. For the first time sulfur dioxide emissions were successfully measured by ground-based instruments; scientists recorded 809 tons per day from a Coast Guard boat along the W coast. Periods of tremor and near-constant swarms of LP and hybrid events were recorded on 16 April. An explosion at 0615 on 16 April generated an ash plume that rose about 8 km (26,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W. A three-minute period of high-level tremor started at the same time and was flowed by over two hours of lower-level tremor. Sulfur dioxide emissions were again measured from the W coast, yielding a flux of 460 tons per day. The rate of LP and hybrid events dropped significantly at 2000. Sulfur dioxide plumes reached India. Occasional satellite images of the summit showed a series of changes to the new crater, centered in the SW part of the summit crater. By 17 April an Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris scientist reported that the crater was about 900 m N to S, at least 750 m E to W, and about 100 m deep based on RADAR data. Several vents were either visible or inferred from points of emissions. Sulfur dioxide emissions were 232 and 391 tons per day on 17 and 18 April, respectively. A period of high tremor began at 1649 on 18 April. An explosion produced an ash plume that rose to 8 km (26,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S and SW. This explosion occurred 52 hours after the last one and was the 30th since the explosive phase started. The period of tremor lasted until about 2100 and was followed by ongoing small LP and hybrid events. The rates of those events dropped again, at around 0100 on 19 April. One rockfall was detected by the seismic network at 0139, and two were noted the next day. At 0400 on 20 April a lahar was detected by the seismic network and lasted for 30 minutes; it possibly traveled down the SE flank. During 15-19 April NEMO reported details about the people that have evacuated. The total number of displaced people was 12,775 by 19 April, with 6,208 people in 85 public shelters and 6,567 people (1,800 families) in private shelters. There were no casualties caused by the eruption.
Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that an eruption at Semisopochnoi continued during 14-20 April. Sulfur dioxide emissions were identified in satellite images during 13-14 April. An explosion was recorded by the regional infrasound network at 0417 on 14 April, though weather cloud cover as high as 4 km (13,000 ft) a.s.l. prevented satellite confirmation of an ash plume. Ash emissions began during the morning of 15 April and continued through the day, drifting more than 350 km SE at altitudes as high as 6 km (20,000 ft) a.s.l. They did not decrease in intensity, so at 1915 AVO raised the Aviation colour Code to Red and the Volcano Alert Level to Warning. Sustained ash emissions continued on 16 April, though the plume rose as high as 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and winds pushed it N. Explosions were detected through the night and early in the morning. Minor ash deposits around the volcano were visible. Eruptive activity declined during 16-17 April; one clear satellite view suggested that activity had declined or ceased. At 1249 on 17 April AVO lowered the Aviation colour Code to Orange and the Volcano Alert Level to Watch. Several explosions were recorded during 17-19 April though weather clouds obscured views. Volcanic plumes were visible just above the weather cloud deck (situated at 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l.) and drifted S during 19-20 April. A few darker (possibly ash rich) plumes were visible in satellite data at 0700 and 1150 on 19 April and on 20 April.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.0 earthquake hits the Mariana Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 307 nm northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking north-northwestward at 07 knots.
In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 29s (jobo), located approximately 539 nm north of Antananarivo, Madagascar, is tracking west-northwestward at 08 knots.
Newsbytes:
Cambodia – Severe storms and heavy rain caused flooding and damage in the provinces of Oddar Meanchey, Battambang and Pursat from 16 April 2021. As many as 13 people were injured and 32 homes damaged in Kralanh village, Krakor District in Pursat province after stormy weather on 17 April. Storm damage was also reported in Phnom Kravanh district on the same day, while heavy rain of 87.5mm in 24 hours to 19 Apruil caused flooding in Pursat City. One person died and another injured after lightning strike in Banteay Ampil district in Oddar Meanchey Province on 16 April. Areas of Chong Kal district were also affected. A total of 35 homes were damaged in the province. As much as 97.5 mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 18 April in Banteay Ampil. In Battambang province, rainstorms and lightning strikes were reported in Rotanak Mondol district on 16 April, damaging or destroying 30 houses.
Philippines – On 19 April that a total of 68,490 people were pre-emptively evacuated in Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions due to threats from Tropical Cyclone Surigae (known locally as Bising). Flooding was reported in in 22 barangays in Eastern Samar province after heavy rain. Roads were blocked in Eastern Samar and a bridge in Biliran. Power cuts occurred in Cebu, Leyte, Southern Leyte and Eastern Samar.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.8 earthquake hits the Nias region, Indonesia.
5.4 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.
5.2 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.
5.0 earthquake hits the west Chile rise.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 300 nm east-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking north-northwestward at 05 knots.
Newsbytes:
Angola – Heavy rain and flash floods in Luanda, capital of Angola, caused fatalities and widespread damage on 19 April 2021. Preliminary figures showed 14 people had died, 2 were injured, 1,617 homes flooded and 16 collapsed. As many as 8,165 people are thought to have been displaced or severely affected as a result. Roads in the south of the city were closed after a bridge of the Camorteiro River in the municipality of Talatona was partially destroyed. Flooding came after a period of heavy rain early on 19 April. Drainage channels blocked by garbage reportedly worsened the situation.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.7 earthquake hits Taiwan.
5.7 earthquake hits East Timor.
5.6 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.
5.4 earthquake hits Taiwan.
5.4 earthquake hits Myanmar.
5.2 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.2 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.
5.1 earthquake hits Iceland.
5.0 earthquake hits South Island, New Zealand.
5.0 earthquake hits off the coast of Ecuador.
5.0 earthquake hits southern Peru.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 308 nm east of Manila, Philippines, is tracking north-northwestward at 04 knots.
Newsbytes:
Mauritius – Heavy rainfall and flash flooding in south-eastern parts of Mauritius 15 to 16 April 2021. Nine people were rescued and evacuated from flooded areas of Bambous Virieux. A bus carrying schoolchildren trapped by the rising waters in Bambous Virieux had to be helped to safety by the police. 408mm of rain fell at Plaisance in southern Mauritius on 16 April 2021. This amount corresponds to twice the average monthly rainfall for April at this location. Around 200mm of the total fell in just a few hours (around 04:00 to 10:00) early on 16 April.
Wildfires – South Africa
A wildfire on the slopes of South Africa’s Table Mountain forced University of Cape Town students to evacuate on Sunday, as runaway flames set several campus buildings ablaze and firefighters used helicopters to water-bomb the area.
One firefighter sustained burn wounds and was hospitalized for treatment, officials said. The fire started early on Sunday near a memorial to politician Cecil Rhodes, located on Devils Peak, another part of Cape Town’s mountainous backdrop, before spreading rapidly up the slopes. Heavy smoke could be seen for miles away, some roads were closed and fire alerts were sent to mountain hikers.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.8 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.
5.7 earthquake hits southern Iran.
5.3 earthquake hits near the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia.
5.1 earthquake hits the South Shetland Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits near the coast of southern Peru.
5.0 earthquake hits the Dodecanese Islands-Turkey border region.
5.0 earthquake hits the South Shetland Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 367 nm east of Manila, Philippines, is tracking west-northwestward at 06 knots.
Newsbytes:
Singapore – Heavy rain yesterday afternoon caused flash floods across Singapore, with a number of pavements flooded in the western and central areas.
Vietnam – Flash floods triggered by heavy rains swept through a village in Lao Cai Province early Saturday, killing two people and leaving another missing. The sudden flood at 2 a.m. brought down with it a large volume of rocks and soil as it hit the village in Minh Luong Commune, Van Ban District, damaging 25 houses and five hectares (12.35 acres) of crops. The flood also dumped hundreds of cubic meters of soil and rock on a 200-meter stretch of National Highway 279 in Minh Luong Commune, paralyzing traffic.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.5 earthquake hits Kepulauan Talaud, Indonesia,
5.5 earthquake hits northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
5.3 earthquake hits Fiji.
5.2 earthquake hits offshore Coquimbo, Chile.
5.2 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
5.1 earthquake hits the Mariana Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 329 nm east-southeast of Legazpi, Philippines, is tracking northwestward at 11 knots.
Lyrid Meteor Shower
It’s time for the Lyrids again, the meteor shower that originates from the tail of a comet that circles the sun once every 415 years.
The comet may be a rare sight, but Earth passes through debris from its orbit every year in late April. This year, the medium-bright meteors that occur when the debris streaks through the atmosphere will be visible between April 16 and April 30 in the Northern Hemisphere.
Wildfires – Uttarakhand, India
According to the Forest Department of Uttarakhand, from January to the first week of April 2021, there have been about 1800 incidents of forest fires in the state affecting more than 2500 hectares of forest area.
In the first five days of April, wildfires increased so fast that an area of 567 hectare was affected. Out of this area 380 hectare was forest reserve and the remaining 187 hectare was normal forest area.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.4 earthquake hits south of Lombok, Indonesia.
5.2 earthquake hits south of Sumbawa, Indonesia.
5.1 earthquake hits the Mariana Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 89 nm northwest of Kayangel, Palau, is tracking west-northwestward at 09 knots.
Newsbytes:
Colombia – Flash floods have caused severe damage in the municipality of El Carmen de Bolivar in the department of Bolivar in northern Colombia. Local authorities have declared a state of disaster. Flooding struck on 12 April after hours of heavy rain. Local media said the downpour caused the overflow of the Alférez stream which runs through the municipality. As many as 30 neighbourhoods were affected. Estimates suggest around 70% of the municipality was under water. Colombia Civil Defence reports that around 900 homes were damaged. Civil Defence also reported flash flooding in parts of the southern Putumayo Department from 11 to 13 April 2021.
Sea Level Rise Is Killing Trees Along the US Atlantic Coast
Sea level rise is killing trees along the Atlantic coast, creating ‘ghost forests’ that are visible from space.
Throughout coastal North Carolina, evidence of forest die-off is everywhere. Nearly every roadside ditch is lined with dead or dying trees. This flooding is evidence that climate change is altering landscapes along the Atlantic coast. It’s emblematic of environmental changes that also threaten wildlife, ecosystems, and local farms and forestry businesses.
Large patches of trees are dying simultaneously, and saplings aren’t growing to take their place. And it’s not just a local issue: Seawater is raising salt levels in coastal woodlands along the entire Atlantic Coastal Plain, from Maine to Florida. Huge swaths of contiguous forest are dying. They’re now known in the scientific community as “ghost forests.” Rapid sea level rise seems to be outpacing the ability of these forests to adapt to wetter, saltier conditions. Extreme weather events, fueled by climate change, are causing further damage from heavy storms, more frequent hurricanes and drought.
Plastic Winds
The scattering of plastic pollution in the world’s waterways and atmosphere is now resulting in the “plastification” of the planet, with the debris “spiraling around the globe” in the wind.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences says that smaller microplastics can remain in the atmosphere for nearly a week, which is long enough for them to be carried across an ocean or a continent. A lot of the airborne particles are from decades-old, broken-down items such as plastic bags, wrappers and bottles.
But the biggest sources are roadways, where the tires of large trucks and other vehicles degrade into tiny bits as they rumble along and are picked up by the wind.
Global Temperature Extremes
The week’s hottest temperature was 117 degrees Fahrenheit (47.2 degrees Celsius) in Matam, Senegal.
The week’s coldest temperature was minus 95.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 70.6 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.
Space Dust
The Earth gains quite a bit of weight each year as dust from comets and asteroids rains down on the planet.
Writing in the journal Earth & Planetary Science Letters, researchers say their 20-year study collected samples of the space debris, ranging from 30 to 200 micrometers in size, near the Franco-Italian Concordia research station in Antarctica. The scientists from France’s National Center for Scientific Research then calculated that Earth receives about 14 tons of the micrometeorites each day. They believe 80% comes from comets and the remainder from asteroids.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Dengue Fever – Mauritius
In a follow-up on the Dengue fever epidemic in Reunion Island, officials report 994 additional confirmed cases from March 29 to April 4. The circulation of the virus continues to intensify with surveillance indicators (confirmed cases, emergency room visits, weekly hospitalizations) on the increase in Reunion Island.
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 7 April 2021 – 13 April 2021
Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that at 0641 on 5 April and explosion at Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) produced an ash plume that rose as high as 3 km above the crater rim and ejected material 800-1,000 m away from the crater. Five explosions were recorded during 9-12 April. The highest ash plume rose 2.1 km and bombs were ejected as far as 900 m from the crater. Crater incandescence was visible nightly. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).
Dukono – Halmahera (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 6-10 April ash plumes from Dukono rose 100-700 m above the summit and drifted E, SE, and S. Weather conditions prevented visual observations during 11-12 April. 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) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 2-9 April that sent ash plumes to 4.5 km (14,800 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Ibu – Halmahera (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 6-13 April gray-and-white ash plumes from Ibu rose 200-1,000 m above the summit and drifted mainly N, E, and S. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay at least 2 km away from the active crater and 3.5 km away on the N side.
Kilauea – Hawaiian Islands (USA) : HVO reported that the W vent on the inner NW wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued to supply the lava lake during 31 March-6 April. Lava flowed at a low rate from the main vent into the lake through crusted-over channels and submerged inlets. The total depth of the lake measured about 226 m and lava continued to circulate in the W part; the E half of the lake remained solidified and expanded toward the W. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was 1,200 tons/day on 1 April. HVO field crews observed weak spattering from two areas at the W vent during 1-2 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.
Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that the Strombolian eruption at Lewotolok continued during 6-13 April. Gray-and-white ash plumes rose as high as 750 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. Incandescent material was ejected 300-500 m above the summit on most days and 500 m SE on 8 April. Incandescent material was ejected to the E during 9 and 11-12 April. Rumbling was occasionally audible. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 4 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 continued to grow during 1-8 April. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1,098,000 cubic meters on 7 April, with a growth rate of about 12,800 cubic meters per day, and continued to shed material down the flank. A total of 13 pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum of 1.5 km down the SW flank. Incandescent avalanches, recorded 119 times, traveled as far as 1.1 km down the SW flank. The summit lava dome had grown to 75 m tall. Minor ashfall was reported in Ngipiksari (8 km SSW), Klangon (4 km S), and Deles (3 km SE) on 3 April. 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.
Raung – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that daily gray-and-white ash plumes rose 50-600 m above Raung’s summit during 6-13 April and drifted mainly N, E, and S. 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.
Semeru – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 7-13 April, though weather conditions often prevented visual confirmation. Gray-and-white ash plumes rose as high as 500 m during 9 and 11-12 April. 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.
Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 2-9 April. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).
Sinabung – Indonesia : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Sinabung continued during 6-13 April. Weather conditions sometimes prevented visual observations of the volcano, though white fumarolic plumes were visible almost daily rising as high as 700 m above the summit and drifting in multiple directions. An eruptive event on 7 April produced a gray ash plume that rose 1 km. Two eruptive events the next day generated ash plumes that rose as high as 700 m. Avalanches traveled as far as 1.5 km E and SE during 8-11 April. Ash plumes rose 500-1,000 m high on 10 April. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 3 km and extensions to 5 km in the SE sector and 4 km in the NE sector.
Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global
5.5 earthquake hits the Nias region, Indonesia.
5.1 earthquake hits the Near Islands in the Aleutian Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits the Mariana Islands.
5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.
5.0 earthquake hits the Philippine Islands.
Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:
In the northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm (ts) 02w (Surigae), located approximately 106 nm east-northeast of Kayangel, Palau, is tracking westward at 03 knots.
Antarctica’s ‘Doomsday Glacier’ close to tipping point
The glacier could be melting at the key points anchoring it to the land.
Thwaites Glacier, a gigantic ice shelf in West Antarctica, has been on climate scientists’ radars for two decades now. But they didn’t know just how fast the glacier was melting, and how close it was to complete collapse, until researchers sent an unmanned submarine below the ice shelf.
The first measurements ever performed in the dark waters under the 74,000 square mile (192,000 square kilometers) chunk of ice revealed a disquieting piece of information: A previously underestimated current of warm water is flowing from the east, whittling away at several vital “pinning points” that anchor the shelf to the land.
As one of Antarctica’s fastest melting glaciers, Thwaites Glacier, cheerfully nicknamed the “Doomsday Glacier,” has lost an estimated 595 billion tons (540 billion metric tons) of ice since the 1980s, contributing to a 4% rise in global sea levels since that time. The glacier acts like a cork in a wine bottle, stopping the rest of the ice in the region from flowing into the sea, so Thwaites Glacier’s collapse could potentially take the rest of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet with it, causing a 10-foot (3 meter) rise in global sea levels.
4 dead gray whales wash up around San Francisco
Four dead gray whales have washed up on the shores of the San Francisco Bay Area in just eight days, prompting fears that the species is under threat from human activity in the area. The whales probably represent just a small fraction of the number dying in the area.
In 2019, 73 dead gray whales were found washed up along the west coast of North America during a six-month period.
Necropsies have revealed that the main causes of death for gray whales are malnutrition due to climate change, entanglement in fishing gear and trauma from ship strikes.
Millions of tons of nuclear wastewater from Fukushima will be dumped into the sea
Japan’s government announced on Tuesday (April 13) that it will dump more than a million tons of contaminated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean, beginning in two years.
Roughly 1.25 million tons (1.13 million metric tons) of water have accumulated around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan since 2011, after a magnitude-9.0 earthquake and resulting tsunami devastated the region. The twin disasters killed nearly 20,000 people, according to NPR, and caused meltdowns in three of the plant’s six reactors, triggering the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl.
To keep the remaining reactor cores from melting, officials with the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) have been pumping nearly 200 tons (180 metric tons) of cooling water through the site every day. That contaminated wastewater is stored in more than 1,000 enormous tanks on site and automatically filtered to remove most of the radioactive material, except for tritium — a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that is considered hazardous to human health in large amounts.
Now, 10 years after the disaster, TEPCO is running out of room to store the wastewater. The disposal plan, which was approved in a government cabinet meeting on Tuesday, will see the wastewater gradually discharged into the Pacific Ocean, most likely over the course of several decades.
Interesting Images
A Flemish Giant rabbit named Darius is missing. He is the largest rabbit on Earth.
Covid-19
The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:
Syphilis – USA
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that annual cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States continued to climb in 2019, reaching an all-time high for the sixth consecutive year.
The newly released 2019 STD Surveillance Report found:
2.5 million reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, the three most commonly reported STDs in 2019.
A nearly 30% increase in these reportable STDs between 2015 and 2019.
The sharpest increase was in cases of syphilis among newborns (i.e., congenital syphilis), which nearly quadrupled between 2015 and 2019.
Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 7 April 2021 – 13 April 2021
Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that the explosive eruption that began at Karymsky on 3 April continued through 11 April. A thermal anomaly was visible in satellite images during 2-6 April; weather conditions obscured views on other days. The 3 April explosion generated an ash plume that rose to 8.5 km (27,900 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 255 km NE. At 1745 on 11 April explosions produced ash plumes that rose to 4 km (13,100 ft) a.s.l. and drifted at least 65 km SE. The Aviation Color Code was raised to Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale) on 3 April.
Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : IMO reported that the fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 7-13 April. Lava from the third fissure flowed S into Geldingadalur and NE towards the Meradalir valley site. Flows from the three fissures connected into one flow field on 7 April. Another new fissure opened at around 0300 on 10 April, halfway between two existing fissures, and all four fissures were simultaneously active. Lava flowed towards Geldingadalur. Gas-rich emission plumes were visible in webcam images rising 1.1-1.3 km (3,600-4,300 ft) a.s.l. At least two new vents opened on 13 April based on webcam views. On 14 April IMO noted that lava was flowing from at least eight vents and unverified reports form the morning suggested two additional vents had opened. Sulfur dioxide gas flux was 29 kilograms per second, comparable to measurements collected during the previous few weeks.
IMO warned visitors that new fissures could open without adequate visible warning, especially in an area just S of Keilir, by Litla-Hrút, where seismicity was concentrated. They also warned of increased gas emissions hazards. The Aviation Color Code remained Orange due to the lack of ash and tephra emissions.
Pacaya – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that the eruption at Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater continued during 7-13 April. Explosions during 6-7 April produced ash plumes that rose 1 km above the summit and drifted 10 km W and SW. Ballistics were ejected 50-150 m above the summit. Explosions during 8-9 and 11-12 April produced ash plumes that rose as high as 1 km and drifted as far as 10 km NE, W, and SW.
The lava flow on the W and SW flanks was 3.7 km long and continued to be fed. Incandescent lava blocks were spalled from the flow front and vegetation was set on fire. The lava advanced W onto the La Breña farm and SW towards El Patrocinio and El Rodeo, near the Campo Alegre farm. On 12 April the flows burned La Breña coffee and avocado plantations. By 13 April the lava flows were 3.8 km long, and within 370 m of houses in El Patrocinio. Another flow front was 250 m E of El Rodeo, and obstructed the road that connects El Rodeo, El Caracol, and Los Pocitos.
Piton de la Fournaise – Reunion Island (France) : OVPF reported that a seismic crisis at Piton de la Fournaise began at 1457 on 9 April and was accompanied by rapid deformation beneath the S flank. Seismicity indicated that a fissure opened at 1900 but could not be visually confirmed due to weather conditions. The Alert Level was raised to 2-2. During an overflight at 0840 on 10 April scientists observed a NNW-oriented fissure, 700 m S of Château Fort. Activity was focused at two vents, each producing lava fountains that were no higher than 30 m tall, though fountains also rose from other parts of the fissure. Slow-moving ‘a’a lava flowed SE and then curved E and advanced 1.6 km to 1,800 elevation. The N end of the fissure was no longer active. Two cones had formed over the main vents and were growing larger; by 11 April the more northern vent was the larger of the two. Fountains rose 30-60 m and the lava flow had advanced to 1,750 m elevation. By 1900 on 11 April the lava flow was 3.2 km long and had reached 1,690 m elevation. Lava fountaining continued at the two vents during 12-13 April, rising 20-60 m. The lava flow continued to advance; by 13 April the flow was about 3.6 km long and had reached 1,500-1,550 m elevation.
Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that low-level ash emissions from Semisopochnoi were visible in satellite images on 12 April along with a steam plume drifting E beyond the island. Additionally, new ash deposits extending SE at least to the coastline were also visible. The event was recorded by the regional infrasound network. The Aviation Color Code and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Orange and Watch, respectively.
Soufriere St. Vincent – St. Vincent : University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) and National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) reported that the effusive eruption at Soufrière St. Vincent (often simply referred to as “La Soufriere”) became explosive on 9 April after a period of increased seismicity, gas emission, and rapid dome growth. Earthquake swarms were recorded during 22-25 March and 5 April, signifying a change in the eruption pattern. Small earthquakes associated with dome growth were recorded on 7 April. Episodes of tremor indicating movement of magma and fluids close to the surface began at 0300 on 8 April and were again recorded at 0530, 0800, 1015, and 1300, slowly increasing in magnitude. Five long-period earthquakes and two brief swarms of VT events occurred in between the tremor episodes; ash venting occurred with the last episode. Sulfur dioxide emissions were identified in satellite data, and clouds of steam and gas were visible from the Belmont Observatory. Later that evening, incandescent material over the vent area was visible in webcam images, and views from the observatory indicated that the dome had grown significantly. The Alert Level was raised to Red at around 1830, and the Prime Minister issued an evacuation order for the Red Zone at the N part of the island, affecting 16,000-20,000 people.
An explosive eruption began at 0840 on 9 April when an ash plume rose to 8 km (27,900 ft) a.s.l. and drifted mainly ENE. Ash fell across the island, affecting communities including Chateaubelair and Petite Bordel, the observatory, Belmont and surrounding areas at the S end of the island, and forcing the closure of the Argyle International Airport (20 km S). NEMO stated that evacuations in the Orange and Red zones were impeded by significant ashfall and poor visibility, but by the evening most residents had been evacuated. A second period of vigorous ash venting began at 1445 and initially rose about 4 km (13,100 ft) a.s.l. Lightning was visible in the rising plume. Successive explosions and ash pulses fed the plume for hours and it rose to 16 km (52,000 ft) a.s.l. A third explosive series began at 1835. Ash venting occurred through the night, causing ashfall across St. Vincent and reaching Barbados, about 165 km E, significantly impacting residents on that island.
Periods of banded tremor began at 0330 on 10 April, lasting for periods of 20-30 minutes with 1-3-hour gaps. The tremor episodes were associated with explosive activity and stronger pulses of ash emissions to higher altitudes; ash plumes rose to 10.6-16 km (35,000-52,000 ft) a.s.l. throughout the day. The Washington VAAC stated that ash plumes during 9-10 April had drifted as far as 1,200 km ESE and about 3,000 km ENE. The Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) in Barbados also closed.
Ashfall continued to be widespread on 10 April; deposit thickness varied from less than 1 mm in Colonaire (~12.5 km SSE) to 10-15 mm in Rabacca (~7.4 km SSE). Scientists reported darkness at the observatory at 1617; video showed intense and continuous ashfall. Satellite data confirmed that explosions had excavated the 2020-2021 lava dome and parts of the 1979 dome, leaving a large crater.
Overnight during 10-11 April ash again fell island-wide, and also in the Grenadines (to the SSW), Barbados, and Saint Lucia (50 km NNE). Explosions early on 11 April were followed by widespread power and water outages on the island as reported by NEMO, and some houses had collapsed under the significant ashfall. Beginning around midday the periods between episodes of high-amplitude tremor lengthened from 1.5-4 hours to 5-8 hours. The VAAC reported that through the day ash plumes rose 12.2-16 km (40,000-52,000 ft) a.s.l. and continued to drift long distances to the ENE, E, and SE. A large explosion at 0415 on 12 April produced an ash plume that rose to 12.8 km (42,000 ft) a.s.l. Pyroclastic flows descended several valleys on the S and W flanks, reaching the coast at Morne Ronde (4.3 km W), Larikai (3.5 km WNW), and Trois Loupes Bay (3.5 km NW). Damage to vegetation was extensive along the W coast, stretching from Larikai Bay to Turner Bay. The pattern of seismicity again changed; high-amplitude tremor episodes ceased, but two low-amplitude and one high-amplitude episode were recorded during 0600-1700. Explosivity or notable ash venting coincided with the episodes; the spacing between explosive events increased.
A series of Vulcanian explosions began at 0630 on 13 April and lasted about 30 minutes. The VAAC stated that a dense ash plume rose to 11 km (35,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and SE, as well as N and NE. Pyroclastic flows traveled about 6 km WSW, reached the ocean at Wallibou Bay, and extended past the coastline over the sea. Scientists observed the western coastline later in the day and noted that pyroclastic flows had descended all valleys from Larikai to Wallibou, a stretch about 5 km long. Lahar deposits were observed in the Sandy Bay area. The VAAC noted that at 1850 a new ash emission rose to 7.6 km (25,000 ft) a.s.l. and was associated with a thermal anomaly. UWI-SRC stated that a large explosion was recorded around 2300. Pyroclastic flows overnight were channeled to the E into the Rabacca River drainage. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory stated that a sulfur odor and minor ashfall from Soufrière St. Vincent was observed on their island (390 km NNW).
Daily satellite-based measurements of SO2 were notable beginning on 9 April. Though the initial explosion at 0840 showed relatively minor SO2 emissions, stronger, continuous ash and SO2 emissions began later on 9 April (at 1445) and continued into the next day, transitioning into discrete explosive events that continued a least through 14 April. Satellite data showed about 0.4 teragrams (Tg) of SO2 in the plume on 10 April, with some stratospheric injection. Simon Carn noted that this makes the La Soufriere eruption the largest tropical SO2 emission since the 2011 Nabro eruption, and the largest in the Caribbean since satellite measurements began in 1979. The SO2 plume initially fanned out to the NE, E, and SE across the Atlantic Ocean. Measurements during 11-13 April showed similar results of 0.4-0.6 Tg SO2 depending on altitude. The eastern edge of the gas plume reached about 4,700 km to the W coast of Africa by 12 April, and another 2,000 km inland to Mali and Niger on 13 April.
Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was visible at night during 5-9 April. Four explosions generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1.6 km above the crater rim and ejected bombs 600 m away. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW) during 8-9 April. The Alert Level remained at 2 and the public was warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.
