Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.3 earthquake hits offshore Male, Chile.

5.2 earthquake hits the Bonin Islands, Japan.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 17s (Herman), located approximately 7559 nm northwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking southeastward at 06 knots.

Newsbytes:

Colombia - Heavy rain in the Cauca Department of Colombia has taken its toll over the last few days, with hundreds of families affected by flooding and landslides in the municipalities of Suarez, Caloto, La Vega, Jambaló and Santander de Quilichao. Several rivers including the Quilichao River broke their banks in Santander de Quilichao on 24 March 2023. The local government reported one fatality and more than 500 families affected.

Wildlife

Inbreeding in Orcas

Southern Resident killer whales, a small population of orcas living in the Pacific Ocean off the northwest coast of North America, are so isolated that they've taken to inbreeding, which has contributed to their decline, a new study finds. One reason for this decline is the group's limited geographic range, which stretches between British Columbia and Oregon.

In general, killer whales begin reproducing when they're 10 years old, hitting their reproductive prime in their early 20s. However, the Southern Resident orcas had less than half the chance of surviving through their prime years to reach 40, compared to the least inbred individuals. Additionally, females with the lowest level of inbreeding can expect to have 2.6 offspring in their lifetimes, while highly inbred females will have an average of 1.6 calves.

Monarch Decline

The number of endangered monarch butterflies that reached their winter habitat in the mountains of western Mexico dropped by 22% this season, the victims of illegal logging, habitat loss and climate change. The World Wildlife Fund Mexico reports that extreme 2022 temperatures in the United States contributed most to the decline.

Droughts, frosts and the loss of the migrating monarchs’ food source, milkweeds, across North America are also major factors. The monarchs once clustered in trees covering more than 18 hectares of forest in Michoacan state before logging, fires, drought and removal of sick or weak trees brought that number down to only around 2.5 hectares this year.

Environment

Too Hot to Live

Heat stress from steadily rising temperatures in India is pushing some of its human population to the limits of survival. After India’s hottest February on record, there are growing fears there will be a repeat of last summer’s record heat waves, which killed hundreds, caused massive crop losses and triggered power blackouts.

With temperatures last summer comparable to those in the Sahara and Saudi Arabia, South Asia’s much higher humidity made sweating much less efficient for the population, or not effective at all. A recent World Bank report warned that India could become one of the first populated places where mounting heat and humidity could rise above survivable limits.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 45.0 degrees Celsius (113 degrees F) at Kayes, Mali.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 67.0 degrees Celsius (-89 degrees F) 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.

Disease

Rabies - New Zealand

New Zealand health officials confirmed the country has had its first case of rabies. The overseas traveller died from the disease last week, but this person posed no health risk to any member of the public while in New Zealand. The disease was contracted overseas and then the person was diagnosed in New Zealand.

Vietnam - Chickenpox, Dengue Fever

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) in Hanoi reported this week the number of cases of chickenpox and dengue fever in the city continued to increase. Last week, Hanoi recorded 86 cases of chickenpox. From the beginning of 2023 until now, the city has had 634 cases of chickenpox (while in the same period in 2022, there were only 6 cases).

In the past week, 17 cases of dengue fever were recorded. Thus, accumulated from the beginning of 2023 until now, Hanoi has had 189 cases of dengue fever (an increase of nearly 19 times compared to the same period in 2022).

Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing activity for the week 22 March - 28 March 2023

Ahyi - Mariana Islands (USA) : Unrest at Ahyi Seamount continued during 21-28 March. A plume of discolored water was observed in high-resolution satellite images acquired on 21 and 22 March. No observations indicated that activity has breached the ocean surface. One possible underwater explosion was detected by pressure sensors on Wake Island, 2,270 km E, during 26-27 March.

Aira - Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported ongoing eruptive activity at Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) during 20-27 March, with crater incandescence visible nightly. Two explosions recorded on 21 and 22 March produced ash plumes that rose 1.2 km above the crater rim and ejected large blocks 1-1.3 km from the vent. Two eruptive events during 24-27 March produced volcanic plumes that rose 1.1 km.

Asosan - Kyushu (Japan) : The amplitude of volcanic tremor signals at Asosan increased in December 2022, and then further intensified on 30 January. The amplitude fluctuated at high levels for a few weeks, and then decreased on 19 February and again on 14 March. Daily sulfur dioxide emissions had exceeded 1,000 tons per day starting in December 2022; emissions declined to below that threshold by mid-January and remained at lower levels.

Cotopaxi - Ecuador : IG reported that eruptive activity at Cotopaxi was ongoing during 22-28 March. Gas-and-steam emissions were visible during 21-24 March rising as high as 1 km above the crater rim and drifting E; weather clouds prevented views of the volcano on 23 March. Ash emissions rose 500-800 m above the crater rim and drifted SW and SE during 25-26 March. Ash plumes rose 1.1 km above the crater rim and rifted SE, NE, and NW on 27 March. Ash plumes rose as high as 2 km above the crater rim on 28 March and drifted NW, causing minor ashfall in the Machachi parish on the N flank, in Parque Nacional Cotopaxi.

Ebeko - Paramushir Island (Russia) : KVERT reported that moderate activity at Ebeko was ongoing during 16-23 March. According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island, about 7 km E) explosions during 18 and 21-22 March generated ash plumes that rose as high as 2.8 km (9,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE and E. Ash plumes were identified in satellite images drifting 76 km E during 22-23 March.

Fuego - South-Central Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that 4-10 explosions per hour recorded at Fuego during 22-28 March generated ash plumes that rose as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim and drifted at least 25 km in multiple directions. Ashfall was reported almost daily in areas downwind including Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Finca Palo Verde, La Rochela, Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), El Porvenir (8 km ENE), Finca Asunción, Aldeas, and San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW). Ashfall was not confirmed during 23-24 March Explosions ejected incandescent material up to 200 m above the crater. Daily block avalanches descended the flanks in various directions towards the Ceniza (SSW), Santa Teresa, Seca (W), Taniluya (SW), Trinidad (S), Las Lajas (SE), Honda (E), and El Jute (ESE) ravines, sometimes reaching vegetated areas. Shockwaves caused structures to shake in communities around the volcano.

Great Sitkin - Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that a 23 March satellite image confirmed that lava continued to slowly erupt at the summit of Great Sitkin, producing a thick lava flow. The flow advanced to the E and likely continued to be fed through 28 March.

Karangetang - Sangihe Islands : Webcam images of Karangetang posted in PVMBG daily reports during 23-28 March showed incandescent material at the summit Main Crater (S crater) and on the flanks.

Krakatau - Sunda Strait : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Anak Krakatau continued during 22-29 March and multiple ash plumes were visible rising from the vent during 28-29 March. Ash plumes recorded at 0412, 0743, 1221, 1513, and 1935 on 28 March were dense and dark gray and rose as high has 2.5 km above the summit. The ash plumes drifted NE and W. Webcam images captured incandescent material being ejected above the vent at 0415 and around the summit area at 2003. At 0041 on 29 March a dense dark ash plume rose 600 m and drifted W. A webcam image from 0047 showed incandescent material at the vent.

Lewotolok - Lembata Island : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolok was ongoing during 22-28 March. Daily ash plumes, sometimes dense, were visible rising as high as 800 m above the summit and drifting mainly W and NW. VONAs issued on most days described dense gray or gray-to-white ash plumes at 0517, 1623, and 2016 on 22 March, at 1744 on 24 March, at 0103 on 26 March, at 0845 and 1604 on 27 March, and at 0538 on 28 March. A webcam image at 2220 on 22 March showed incandescent material around the summit area and being ejected above the summit. Another webcam images at 0103 on 26 March captured a Strombolian explosion at the summit.

Merapi - Central Java : BPPTKG reported that the eruption at Merapi (on Java) continued during 17-23 March and seismicity remained at high levels. The SW lava dome produced 160 lava avalanches that traveled as far as 1.8 km down the SW flank (upstream in the Bebeng and Boyong drainages). Two pyroclastic flows traveled 1.3 km down the SW flank, upstream of the Bebeng/Krasak drainage. Morphological changes to the SW lava dome were evident in webcam images due to continuing collapses of material, though the volume remained unchanged at 1,686,200 cubic meters.

Santa Maria - Southwestern Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that the Santa Maria-Santiaguito lava dome complex remained highly active during 22-28 March. On most days steady degassing from the dome produced gas plumes that drifted S and SW. Incandescence from the dome and along lava flow margins was visible most nights or early mornings. The lava flow that extended 4.3 km down the SW flank in the San Isidro and Zanjón Seco drainages was active. Activity from the lava dome included explosions and avalanches, and small pyroclastic flows during 22-23 March. Daily weak to moderate explosions generated ash plumes up to 1 km above the crater that drifted SW and W, and avalanches traveled down multiple flanks.

Semeru - Eastern Java : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 22-28 March, with daily emissions of dense ash plumes. At 0605 and 0810 on 23 March gray and white-to-gray ash plumes rose 800 m above the summit and drifted NW and SW. At 0548 on 24 March a white-to-gray ash plume rose 1 km and drifted S. On 25 March at 0600 a white-to-gray ash plume rose 500 m and drifted S and SW, at 0705 a gray ash plume rose 700 m and drifted SE and S, and at 0738 a gray-to-brown ash plume rose 1.2 km and drifted SE. At 0619 and 0659 on 26 March dense white-to-gray ash plumes rose 1 km and drifted SE. At 0756 on 27 March a white-to-gray ash plume rose 800 m and drifted S. At 0130 on 28 March a dense gray ash plume drifted NE and at 0759 a somewhat dense white-to-gray plume rose 800 m and drifted N.

Semisopochnoi - Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that low-level unrest continued at Semisopochnoi during 22-28 March. Steam emissions from the N crater of Mount Young were visible during 22 and 26-27 March. No explosive activity was detected in seismic or infrasound data.

Sheveluch - Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that the ongoing eruption at Sheveluch was generally characterized by explosions, hot avalanches, lava-dome extrusion, and strong fumarolic activity. A daily thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images during 16-23 March.

Stromboli - Aeolian Islands (Italy) : INGV reported that both explosive and effusive activity at Stromboli occurred during 20-26 March, though inclement weather conditions prevented views on most days. Activity was centered at three vents in Area N within the upper part of the Sciara del Fuoco, and from four vents in Area C-S (South-Central Crater) on the crater terrace. Explosions at two vents in the N1 crater and one vent in the N2 crater in Area N were low to medium intensity and ejected coarse material (bombs and lapilli) 80-150 m at a rate of 6-12 explosions per hour. Explosive activity at three active vents at the S2 sector in Area C-S ejected coarse material generally as high as 150 m above the vent at a rate of 5-7 explosions per hour; material was ejected as high as 300 m on 23 March. Sector C was characterized by occasional low-intensity explosive activity through the week and intense spattering on 22 March. No activity was recorded at sector S1. A strong explosion at 1549 on 25 March at Area C-S and was followed by two minor explosions; the sequence lasted about three minutes. A lava overflow event at one of the N1 vents began at 2242 on 23 March and was preceded by spattering activity in Area N. After about an hour lava flowed along the Sciara del Fuoco in the ravine that had formed in October 2022. The flow rate notably increased during 0200-0400 on 26 March and caused avalanches of material from collapses at the advancing flow front. By that afternoon the flow was cooling down and no longer being fed. It was unknown due to weather conditions if material reached the coastline.

Suwanosejima - Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that the eruption at Suwanosejima's Ontake Crater continued during 20-27 March. Eruptive activity including three explosions sent ash plumes as high as 2 km above the rim and ejecting large blocks as far as 300 m from the vent. Crater incandescence was visible nightly. Occasional ashfall was reported in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW).

Villarrica - Central Chile : The eruption at Villarrica was ongoing during 21-28 March. POVI reported that on 21 March Strombolian explosions ejected material 100 m above the crater rim. SERNAGEOMIN reported that at 0551 on 24 March a long-period earthquake was associated with low-intensity crater incandescence. According to POVI a cone with a vent that was about 13 m in diameter had formed on the crater floor and was visible during a recent overflight. Sometimes lava fountains rose over 100 m. At 2249 on 26 March Strombolian explosions ejected incandescent material more than 110 m above the crater rim.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.2 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits the Bonin Islands, Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits Halmahera, Indonesia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 17s (Herman), located approximately 738 nm northwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking east-southeastward at 09 knots.

Newsbytes:

Kenya - At least 12 people have lost their lives and hundreds have been displaced from their homes in Kenya after storms, heavy rain and flooding affected several regions of the country over the last week. One person died, hundreds of homes were destroyed and families were displaced after heavy rain caused damage and flooding in the capital Nairobi and surrounding areas on 23 March 2023. More recently, heavy rain triggered flash flooding in Gilgil in Nakuru County on 27 March. Seven bodies have been recovered and 5 people were injured and transferred to a local hospital.

Brazil - Rising levels of the Acre River along the borders of Acre state in northwestern Brazil and Pando Department in northern Bolivia. Heavy rain and the overflowing Acre River flooded wide areas of the city of Rio Branco, the capital of the state of Acre in Brazil, on 23 March 2023. The city recorded 124.4 mm of rain in 24 hours to 23 March 2023, according to figures from Brazil’s Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET). The Acre River at Rio Branco jumped from around 8 metres to 15.80 metres in 24 hours. The flood level here is 14 metres.

Global Warming

Countries could be forced to take climate action

At the United Nations in New York more than 130 member states have voted for the International Court of Justice to pronounce on "the obligations incumbent on states" to protect the climate "for present and future generations".

The resolution, which has been years in the making, was proposed by the tiny Pacific island state of Vanuatu.

It means the world’s highest court will now clarify what countries must do legally to defend the environment from climate harm. However, the resolution is non-binding (for the time being) and represents a step forward particularly for those countries, like Vanuatu, which face an existential threat from climate change.

Wildlife

Bird Flu Kills Mountain Lions

The Eurasian strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) was detected in two mountain lions in Mono County in December 2022 and January 2023, according to wildlife health experts with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Water bombing has being used for the first time in a decade in Central Australia to fight a fire that has been burning in the West MacDonnell Ranges since early March. The blaze has already burnt 100,000 hectares in the region. The AS350 B3 helicopter, capable of lifting 1 000 litres, was flown in from Katherine on Wednesday.

At least one home has been destroyed and several other dwellings impacted by a bushfire that tore through an Alice Springs rural area Friday afternoon. More than a dozen vehicles and a number of other structures were burnt out by the blaze which has since been brought under control and the alert level downgraded.

Disease

Bird Flu in Humans - Chile

The Ministry of Health reports the first case of bird flu in humans in Chile, reported in northern Chile. The individual is a 53-year-old man affected by a severe influenza case. He is currently stable.

Covid-19 - Brazil

Three years after the first case of Covid-19 registered in the country, Brazil reached another sad milestone this Tuesday, March 28: 700,000 deaths caused by the disease.

Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity - New activity for the week 22 March - 28 March 2023

Asamayama - Honshu (Japan) : JMA reported that inflation on Asamayama’s W flank began to be detected on 15 March, and the number of shallow volcanic earthquakes increased on 21 March. On 22 March JMA warned the public that very small eruptions may impact areas within 500 m of the crater.

Bezymianny - Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that at 1825 on 29 March an ash plume from Bezymianny rose as high as 6 km (19,700 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE.

Kita-Ioto - Volcano Islands : JMA reported that a submarine eruption occurred at Funka Asane, a submarine vent 4-5 km NW of Kita-Ioto, at around 1800 on 27 March based on satellite images.

Ulawun - New Britain (Papua New Guinea) : RVO reported a short eruption at Ulawun, during 0408-0425 on 28 March, based on seismic data. A local volcano observer reported minor ashfall in areas to the NW including Ubili village, and the Ulamona Mission, Saltamana, and Ibana Village Oil Palm areas. According to the Darwin VAAC at 0600 an ash plume was visible in a satellite image drifting W at 3.4 km (11,000 ft) a.s.l.; the plume had dissipated by 1000.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.0 earthquake hits Hokkaido, Japan.

5.4 earthquake hits southern Italy.

5.2 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits northwest of the Ryukyu Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits south off Fiji.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 17s (Herman), located approximately 907 nm west-northwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking southeastward at 10 knots.

Newsbytes:

Ecuador - Over 60 people are feared missing after a huge landslide buried homes in the community of Alausí, Chimborazo Province, Ecuador late on 26 March 2023. As of late 27 March, the government of Ecuador confirmed 7 fatalities. More than 30 people have been rescued and 23 people hospitalised. Around 163 homes and a school have been damaged or destroyed, directly impacting the lives of around 500 people. Water and power infrastructure were also negatively impacted and a 150-metre section of road was severely damaged. Authorities ordered the evacuation of about 600 homes in the area considered to be at risk.

Global Warming

Trees Grow for Extra Month as Planet Warms

Researchers studying hardwoods in northwest Ohio say a century of warming has extended their annual growing season by a month on average.

Between 1883 and 1912, farmer Thomas Mikesell made meticulous notes on local tree growth, precipitation and temperature in his home town of Wauseon, Ohio. Researchers say Mikesell's observations are a near unique pre-warming dataset to compare with modern times. They found that leaves stayed on trees about 15% longer than they did in Mikesell's day. "An entire month of growing season extension is huge when we're talking about a pretty short period of time for those changes to be expressed."

Species responded to warmer temperatures in different ways - most kept their leaf colour longer into Autumn but some budded early.

Disease

Dengue Fever, Chikungunya - Argentina

The Argentina National Ministry of Health reports that up to epidemiological week 11 of 2023 (from March 12 to 18), 9,388 cases of dengue were reported in the country, of which 8,504 acquired the infection in Argentina.

Regarding chikungunya fever, 528 cases have been registered so far, of which 166 acquired the infection in Argentina, 129 are under investigation and 233 acquired the infection outside the country

Leptospirosis - Peru

The recent intense rains that were recorded in Lambayeque caused the collapse of the drainage system in various parts of the region, as well as the presence of sewage in the streets of the affected neighborhoods. This has resulted in the proliferation of leptospirosis, a disease that is contracted by being in direct contact with the urine of an infected animal or surfaces contaminated with said substance.

Opisthorchiasis - Russia

In 2022, the number of cases of opisthorchiasis morbidity increased in the Novosibirsk Region. This is a parasitic disease caused by flatworms. According to data provided by the Rospotrebnadzor Office for the region, last year the number of cases was 2,566 people, which is 1,076 more than in 2021

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.1 earthquake hits the Solomon Islands.

5.5 earthquake hits Sulawesi, Indonesia.

5.3 earthquake hits Luzon, Philippines.

5.2 earthquake hits the Lac Kivu region, DR Congo.

5.0 earthquake hits the west Chile rise.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Bolivia - Flooding has affected thousands of people after the Acre River broke its banks in the northern Pando Department of Bolivia. Further south, the Pirai and Rio Grande rivers have caused flooding in parts of the Santa Cruz department. One person died in the Pirai river in Limoncito in El Torno municipality and another in the Pirai river north of the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Flooding was reported in the city after heavy rain on 23 March. Authorities in Pando Department have helped evacuate at least 150 families living close to the Acre River in the departmental capital, Cobija.

Brazil - More heavy rain caused flooding and landslides in areas of Manaus, the capital of the state of Amazonas in Brazil, on 25 March 2023. The city government reported 172 families lost their homes. Manaus City Hall reported more than 135 incidents of flooding and landslides across the city as a result of the heavy rainfall on 25 March. Around 113 mm of rain fell in the east of the city in a few hours. Numerous homes were swept away by flood water. Many others were damaged or destroyed by landslides.

Mississippi, USA - A massive tornado that was nearly a mile (1.2 kilometers) long has killed at least 26 people and injured dozens more after devastating parts of western Mississippi on Friday (March 24) night. The storm is the deadliest in over 50 years in Mississippi. It hit several small towns with violent, 166 to 200 mph (267 to 322 km/h) gusts of wind, and has received a preliminary rating of EF4 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale.

Disease

Measles - Kazakhstan

In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in Kazakhstan, the Health Ministry reports 145 suspected measles cases, of which 75 (68 among kids under 14, and seven in adults) are confirmed nationally through March 27.

Meningitis - Togo

In a follow-up on the meningitis outbreak in Togo, the Togolese Ministry of Health now reports a total of 123 suspected cases of meningitis reported in the Oti Sud district, including 12 deaths, through March 19.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.6 earthquake hits the Masbate region, Philippines.

5.4 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.2 earthquake hits Atacama, Chile.

5.1 earthquake hits the Banda Sea.

5.1 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits Kepulauan Tanimbar, Indonesia.

Environment

Seaweed Raft

A massive 8,000km long blob of seaweed is floating towards Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt - a raft of biomass stretching from West Africa to the Gulf of Mexico - contains scattered patches of seaweed on the open ocean.

It's not a new occurrence, but scientists say that this year’s bloom could be one of the biggest ever recorded. The thick, brown seaweed is already carpeting some beaches in Florida, releasing a pungent smell as it decays and entangling humans and animals who step into it.

Sargassum is a leafy brown seaweed festooned with berry-like air pockets. The seaweed floats on the open ocean and - unlike other marine plants- reproduces on the water's surface. The air-filled structures help to give it buoyancy. Sargassum originates in a vast stretch of the Atlantic Ocean called the Sargasso Sea, well off the southeast coast of the US.

The matted brown mass of seaweed stretches across the ocean and provides breeding grounds, food and habitat for fish, sea turtles and marine birds.

Wildfires

Wildfires - North Carolina, USA

A North Carolina fire has spread across several thousand acres and had reached about 34 percent containment by late Sunday afternoon. The Last Resort Fire is burning on both private and federal lands in rural Tyrrell County. After firing operations on Saturday, the fire was estimated at 5,800 acres.

Disease

Syphilis - Canada

The number of infectious syphilis and congenital syphilis cases in Canada have risen sharply during the period of 2017 to 2021. According to the numbers, there were seven confirmed cases of early congenital syphilis in 2017. However, the number rose to 96 cases in 2021, an increase of 1,271 per cent.

In addition, the rate of infectious syphilis cases in adults increased by 166 percent over the same four year period to 30 cases per 100,000 people, and to a total of 11,268 by 2021.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.6 earthquake hits Antofagasta, Chile.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

South Africa - Three people have died this week after heavy flooding wreaked havoc in parts of the Eastern Cape. Meanwhile, on Thursday, floods also claimed a man's life who slipped over an embarkment while fishing at Coffee Bay area in King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality. The heavy downpours have left a trail of destruction to infrastructure, households, and businesses. 10 bridges have been washed away, making it difficult for the community members to access schools and nearby facilities.

Somalia - At least 14 people have been killed in southern Somalia after torrential rains triggered flash floods that have caused havoc in several towns and villages. Bridges, roads and houses have been damaged or destroyed and many people have been forced to flee their homes in search of safer ground. In the town of Baardhere in Jubaland state, 14 people were killed including three members of the same family. Most of the casualties were caused after the victims were trapped across a bridge in the town Thursday evening which was swept up in the floods. The rains signal the early start of the April-June rainy season, and have brought some relief to areas of the country suffering from the worst drought in four decades.

Global Warming

It is time to phase out fossil fuels

Burning of coal, oil and gas has been the source of 64 percent of carbon dioxide emissions since the industrial revolution; over the past 10 years, this ratio has grown to 86 percent. Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases drive up the Earth’s temperature, which creates a spiralling crisis of extreme weather, rising sea levels, disease, biodiversity loss, water stress and poverty.

Despite being aware of this problem for decades, the fossil fuel industry continues to put profits first and ignore scientists’ warnings. That is why, we need leaders who will put the people first.

We need leaders at international financial institutions like the World Bank to firmly commit to addressing climate change and better supporting vulnerable nations – not doubling down on fossil fuel investments.

Since the Paris Agreement was signed, the World Bank has continued to invest billions in fossil fuel projects. It has fallen behind on its already meagre climate commitments, which are less ambitious than the baseline targets set by other development banks. The World Bank and other international financial institutions need to take immediate action and commit to a fossil fuel phase-out that complies with the 1.5C target.

Disease

Chikungunya - Paraguay

In Paraguay this week, the General Directorate of Health Surveillance reports 13,010 chikungunya cases in the last three weeks. Since the outbreak began in October 2022, Paraguay has seen more than 113,000 total cases. Currently, there are 60 accumulated confirmed deaths, with a predominance of males and at the extremes of life.

Leptospirosis - Ecuador

Authorities of the Ministry of Public Health (MSP) reported the epidemiological situation on leptospirosis, an endemic disease in Ecuador. Until March 12, 2023, 54 cases have been registered.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Fiji.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

USA - Dangerous and deadly flash flooding – along with severe thunderstorms and at least one tornado - hit parts of the southern and central U.S. Friday while a late-season snowstorm was forecast to blanket portions of the Great Lakes. The Pacific Northwest also saw snow. A tornado tore through a rural area of the Mississippi Delta Friday night, causing injuries, widespread damage and downing power lines as severe weather that produced hail the size of golf balls moved through several southern states.

Environment

Where are America's most toxic watersheds?

Despite the United States passing a Clean Water Act nearly 50 years ago to dramatically reduce pollution and restore America's waterways, toxic substances are still dumped into many water sources, threatening the health of people and ecosystems.

Here's a list of the 10 watersheds and locations in the U.S. that saw the greatest amount of toxic chemicals released into its waters in 2020, according to the Environmental America Research and Policy Center:

Lower Ohio-Little Pigeon - Toxics released:12,008,366 lbs. - States: Indiana, Kentucky

Upper New - Toxics released: 10,266,141 lbs. - States: North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia

Brandywine-Christina - Toxics released: 6,191,362 lbs. - States: Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania

Lower Cape Fear - Toxics released: 5,017,810 lbs. - State: North Carolina

Muskingum - Toxics released: 4,640,523 lbs. - State: Ohio

Lower Big Sioux - Toxics released: 4,507,539 lbs. - States: Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota

Lake Walcott - Toxics released: 3,866,978 lbs. - State: Idaho

Buffalo-San Jacinto - Toxics released: 3,784,822 lbs. - State: Texas

Middle Ohio-Laughery - Toxics released: 3,524,720 lbs. - States: Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio

Lower Rock - Toxics released: 3,069,016 lbs. - States: Illinois, Wisconsin

The companies listed in the report — APC Polytech LLC, Radford Army Ammunition Plant, Rio Tinto (owners of Kennecott Utah Copper Mine), The Chemours Company, Nucor Steel Marion Inc., Duke Energy, Lonza Companies (owners of Arch Wood Protection Inc.), CPS Energy — did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Spain

Spain's first major wildfire of the year continued to spread as it raged in the eastern Valencia region on Friday where it forced 1,500 residents to abandon their homes and destroyed more than 7,400 acres of forest. More than 500 firefighters supported by 18 planes and helicopters worked throughout the night and on Friday to tackle the blaze near the village of Villanueva de Viver.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits northwestern Iran.

5.4 earthquake hits the Izu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits the Izu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

Environment

Drought Starvation

Nearly 130,000 people face starvation in the Horn of Africa as the region’s long-term drought is on track to become the worst on record, according to the World Meteorological Organisation. The drought has decimated crops and killed millions of livestock animals over the past year, bringing food insecurity and malnutrition to 6 million people.

Climate scientists say the weather shift creating the drought has been driven by a rare triple La Niña in the Pacific and three years of below-average temperatures in the Indian Ocean as well. It is hoped the predicted El Niño this year will end it.

Dark Winter

Residents across the eastern Great Lakes and the Canadian province of Ontario just suffered through their darkest winter in 73 years. Alaskan climatologist Brian Brettschneider made the calculation by looking at solar energy records from last December to February.

Prolonged lack of sunshine in the depth of winter has been proven to affect human health and can contribute to depression. Gloomy winters can also lead to vitamin D deficiency and a slower metabolism. Toronto went several weeks in December and January without much sunshine.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 45.0 degrees Celsius (113 degrees F) at Matam, Senegal.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 65.0 degrees Celsius (-85 degrees F) 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

Wildfires - Spain

A forest fire raged in eastern Spain on Thursday, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate from nearby villages and sending huge plumes of smoke into the air. Firefighters were alerted about the blaze near Villanueva de Viver in the region of Valencia just before 1 p.m. (1200 GMT). Ten airplanes were fighting to put out the blaze, which had forced the evacuation of the villages of three villages. More than 1,000 people were forced to leave their homes.

Disease

Marburg Virus - Equatorial Guinea

In a follow-up on the Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak in Equatorial Guinea, health officials report eight new cases, bringing the cumulative number of nine confirmed and 20 probable cases that have been recorded since the beginning of the outbreak and as of March 21.

Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing activity for the week 15 March - 21 March 2023

Ahyi - Mariana Islands (USA) : Unrest at Ahyi Seamount continued during 15-21 March. A total of three short (~30 seconds) hydroacoustic detections from the direction of Ahyi were detected by pressure sensors on Wake Island, 2,270 km E, during 17-19 March. Weather clouds often prevented satellite views. Data was not available during 20-21 March due to an outage, though a plume of discoloured water was visible in satellite images.

Aira - Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported ongoing eruptive activity at Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) during 13-20 March, with crater Incandescence visible nightly. Sulfur dioxide emissions were high at 2,100 tons per day on 13 March. On 14 March an explosion produced an ash plume that rose 1 km above the crater rim. Three eruptive events were recorded during 17-20 February, producing volcanic plumes that rose as high as 1 km. No activity or crater incandescence was detected at Showa Crater.

Cotopaxi - Ecuador : IG reported that eruptive activity at Cotopaxi was ongoing during 15-21 March. Gas-and-steam emissions were visible on most days rising as high as 1 km above the crater rim and drifting in multiple directions. On 16 March several gas emissions containing minor amounts of ash rose as high as 1.5 km and drifted SE. During 19-20 March ash-and-gas plumes rose 1-1.5 km and drifted E and SE.

Dukono - Halmahera : PVMBG reported that white-and-gray plumes of variable densities rose from Dukono as high as 450 m above the summit and drifted N and W during 15-16, 18, and 20 March. No plumes were observed on 17 March, but white steam-and-gas plumes rose 150 m and drifted W on 19 March.

Ebeko - Paramushir Island (Russia) : KVERT reported that moderate activity at Ebeko was ongoing during 9-16 March. According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island, about 7 km E) explosions during 10-12 March generated ash plumes that rose as high as 3.5 km (11,500 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE and NW. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 10 and 13 March.

Fuego - South-Central Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that 4-10 explosions per hour were recorded at Fuego during 15-21 March, ejecting incandescent material up to 400 m above the crater and generating ash plumes that rose as high as 1.3 km above the crater rim. The ash plumes drifted as far as 20 km in multiple directions. Ashfall was reported on a few of the days in 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, La Rochela, Finca Asunción, Ceilán, San Andrés Osuna, Aldeas, and San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW). Daily block avalanches descended the flanks in various directions towards the Ceniza (SSW), Santa Teresa, Seca (W), Taniluya (SW), Trinidad (S), Las Lajas (SE), Honda (E), and El Jute (ESE) ravines, sometimes reaching vegetated areas. Shockwaves caused structures to shake in communities immediately surrounding the volcano. A lahar notice issued at 1530 on 15 March described lahars in the Ceniza ravine that carried branches, tree trunks, and blocks 30 cm to 1.5 m in diameter. Lahars on 18 March descended the El Jute and Las Lahas drainages, carrying branches, tree trunks, and blocks 30 cm to 1.5 m in diameter.

Great Sitkin - Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that eruptive activity at Great Sitkin continued during 15-21 March, characterized by the eruption of lava that was confined to the summit crater. Radar data from 20 March confirmed slow growth of the lava flow.

Ibu - Halmahera : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Ibu continued during 15-18 March. White-and-gray plumes of variable densities rose as high as 800 m above the summit and drifted N, SE, SW, and W. The Darwin VAAC reported that on 20 March ash plumes rose to 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l., or about 800 m above the summit, and drifted SW based on satellite images.

Karangetang - Sangihe Islands : PVMBG reported that the summit Main Crater (S crater) on Karangetang continued to erupt during 15-21 March. Incandescent material at the summit and on the flanks was evident in webcam images captured at 0007 and 2345 on 16 March,1828 on 17 March, 1940 on 18 March, 2311 on 19 March, and 2351 on 20 March. The incandescence was most intense on 18 and 20 March, with webcam images possibly capturing Strombolian explosions. Based on satellite images, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 18 March an ash plume rose to 2.4 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW and a thermal anomaly was visible.

Kilauea - Hawaiian Islands (USA): On 21 March HVO reported that Kilauea was no longer erupting. The lava lake in Halema’uma’u Crater was no longer being supplied as of 7 March based on lava lake levels and crater floor observations. Sulfur dioxide emissions had decreased to near pre-eruption background levels.

Krakatau - Sunda Strait : The Darwin VAAC reported that at 1446 on 18 March white-and-gray ash plumes at Anak Krakatau rose about 500 m above the summit and drifted SW. At 1846 on that same day a gray ash plume rose 300 m and drifted SW. An eruptive event was recorded at 2143, though it was not visible due to darkness.

Lewotolok - Lembata Island : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolok was ongoing during 15-21 March. White gas-and-steam plumes rose as high as 500 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 15-19 March. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 400-600 m above the summit and drifted W and NW during 20-21 March.

Marapi - Central Sumatra : PVMBG reported that on 17 March a white-and-gray plume from Marapi (on Sumatra) rose as high as 400 m above the summit and drifted N and E. Emissions were not observed on other days during 15-19 March, though some of the days were cloudy. White gas plumes rose 50 m above the summit on 20 March.

Mauna Loa - Hawaiian Islands (USA) : HVO reported that Mauna Loa had been quiet since the eruption ended on 13 December 2022 and the number of earthquakes beneath the summit had returned to background levels. Inflation continued as magma replenished the summit reservoir.

Nevado del Ruiz - Colombia : Servicio Geológico Colombiano (SGC) reported that several ash emissions at Nevado del Ruiz were visible in webcam images and reported by residents during 18-20 March. The emissions were associated with seismic signals indicating fluid movement in the conduit. An ash emission at 0902 on 20 March rose 2.7 km above the summit and drifted SW. It was one of the tallest plumes recorded in recent days and was visible from the municipalities of Caldas, Tolima, and Risaralda.

Popocatepetl - Mexico : CENAPRED reported that there were 110-236 steam-and-gas emissions, sometimes containing minor amounts of ash, rising from Popocatépetl each day during 14-21 March; explosions also occurred almost daily. On 15 March a moderately-sized explosion recorded at 0009 was followed by minor explosions at 0058, 0220, 0641, 1215, 1509, and 2105, with another moderate explosion at 1848. On 16 March minor explosions were recorded at 0155 and 2215, and on 17 March they were recorded at 1441, 2105, and 2349. On 19 March multiple minor explosions were recorded, at 0003, 0220, 0926, and 2023, and moderate explosions occurred at 0501, 1300, and 1315. Minor explosions on 20 March were recorded at 0013, 0200, 0226, and 2112, and a moderate one occurred at 1404. A minor explosion occurred at 1712 on 21 March. According to the Washington VAAC daily ash plumes rose to 6.1-8.2 (20,000-27,000 ft) a.s.l., or around as high as 2.8 km above the summit, and drifted mainly N, NE, and S.

San Miguel - Eastern El Salvador : On 16 March MARN reported that gas emissions at San Miguel had decreased in the past few days and noted that gas-and-ash plumes were last observed on 9 March.

Santa Maria - Southwestern Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that the Santa Maria-Santiaguito lava dome complex remained highly active during 15-21 March. Emissions of gas and steam rose up to 800 m above the crater and drifted S, SW, and SE. Almost daily explosions produced ash plumes that rose as high as 800 m above the summit and often drifted SW. Effusion from Caliente dome fed lava flows that slowly descended the San Isidro and Zanjón Seco drainages on the W and SW flanks. Incandescence from the dome during the nights and early mornings. Block-and-ash flows originated from Caliente, and the middle and front of the lava flow. Lahars descended the Cabello de Ángel drainage (a tributary of Nimá I on the SE flank) on 19 March and consisted of a cement-like mixture of volcanic material, branches, and tree trunks.

Semeru - Eastern Java : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 15-21 March. Dense ash plumes were visible almost daily. At 0737 and 0748 on 15 March white-and-gray ash plumes rose 600-800 m above the summit and drifted S and SE. At 0601 on 16 March a white-and-gray ash plume rose 600 m and drifted S, and at 0748 a gray-to-brown ash plume rose 500 m and drifted SW and W. At 0534 on 18 March a white-and-gray ash plume rose 500 m and drifted SW. Just over an hour later, at 0655, a white-and-gray ash plume rose 1 km and drifted S. At 0713 on 20 March white-and-gray ash plume rose 600 m and drifted SW and W, and at 0811 a gray-to-brown ash plume rose 1 km and drifted S.

Sheveluch - Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that the ongoing eruption at Sheveluch was generally characterized by explosions, hot avalanches, lava-dome extrusion, and strong fumarolic activity. A daily thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images during 9-16 March. Ash plumes drifted as far as 62 km E on 11 March.

Suwanosejima - Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that the eruption at Suwanosejima's Ontake Crater continued during 13-20 March. A total of 20 explosions were recorded, sending ash plumes as high as 2.4 km above the crater rim and ejecting large blocks as far as 500 m from the vent. Crater incandescence was visible at night. Occasional ashfall was reported in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW).

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.4 earthquake hits Jujuy, Argentina.

5.9 earthquake hits Tajikistan.

5.7 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

5.6 earthquake hits the Babuyan Islands in the Philippines.

5.5 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.4 earthquake hits Jujuy, Argentina.

5.3 earthquake hits central Turkey.

5.2 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.

5.1 earthquake hits the west Chile rise.

5.1 earthquake hits the Flores region, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits northern Iran.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Brazil - Thousands of people have evacuated their homes after flooding and landslides in several northern states of Brazil. At least 6 people have lost their lives in the state of Maranhão and 3 in in the state of Ceará. Authorities in the state of Maranhão report that multiple municipalities in the state have declared a state of emergency in response to the recent heavy rainfall. Around 800 households have been displaced. The municipalities of Marabá and Itupiranga in Pará State, Brazil, declared an emergency on 21 March 2023 due to rising levels in the Tocantins and Itacaiúnas rivers. Local authorities in Marabá said more than 400 households were displaced. The two rivers have been rising for some time in the state but reached danger levels over the last few days.

Disease

Typhoid Fever - DR Congo

Since the beginning of 2023, a total of 1,800 suspected cases of the typhoid fever epidemic, including 12 deaths, have been notified in the Panzi health zone in Kwango province, DRC media reports.

New invasive mosquitoes descend on Florida, USA

An invasive mosquito species from Central and South America, Culex lactator, has taken root in South Florida, raising concerns that the pests might spread dangerous viruses, like West Nile and St. Louis encephalitis virus. The mosquitoes, which physically resemble many others in Florida, may have already seeded populations in additional counties. It's likely that the pest will continue to spread to more locations in the state.

Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity - New activity for the week 15 March - 21 March 2023

Merapi - Central Java : BPPTKG summarized the eruption at Merapi (on Java) during 10-16 March, including the collapses at the SW lava dome that began on 11 March and continued through the week. A total of 68 pyroclastic flows traveled as far as 4 km down the Bebeng and Krasak drainages on the SW flank. The largest pyroclastic flows were recorded during 11-12 March, which caused ashfall of varying intensity in areas to the W, NW, and N including in Dukun District, Sawangan, Magelang Regency; Magelang City; Selo District, Boyolali Regency; Ambarawa, Jambu, Sumowono, Pringapus, Banyubiru, Bawen Districts, Semarang Regency. Morphological changes to the SW lava domes were evident in webcam and drone images. The volume of the dome before 11 March was 2,759,100 cubic meters and by 13 March the dome volume had decreased to 1,686,200 cubic meters, with an estimate volume loss of 1,072,800 cubic meters. The volume of the summit dome remained unchanged and was estimated at 2,312,100 cubic meters. According to the Darwin VAAC ash plumes were visible in webcam images on 15 and 17 March rising as high as 1.2 km above the summit and drifting S and W, respectively. On both days weather conditions prevented satellite image views. During 16-20 March BPPTKG reported 14-38 daily counts of lava avalanches with material descending the SW flank as far as 1.8 km. Daily counts were not available for 17 March, though incandescent avalanches were visible in webcam footage; rainy weather sometimes prevented visual observations.

Nyamulagira - DR Congo : An 18 March satellite image of Nyamulagira showed a large thermal anomaly, possibly 600 m wide, in the summit crater, indicating that the eruption that had begun on 14 March was continuing.

Semisopochnoi - Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that low-level ash emissions from the N crater of Semisopochnoi’s Mount Young were observed in several web camera images during 18-19 March. Small explosions and volcanic tremor had also resumed. Ash emissions were not detected in satellite images, though on 18 March a robust steam-and-gas plume was visible drifting 150 km from the N crater. Low-level seismicity continued during 20-21 March and one small explosion was detected in seismic and infrasound data. Clouds obscured webcam and satellite views.

Takawangha - Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that earthquake activity near Takawangha had decreased in both rate and magnitude from the peak of the swarm recorded during 9-11 March. More than 800 earthquakes, including multiple M2 and above events, were detected beneath Tanaga Island at depths less than 9 km below sea level during 11-17 March. The decline in activity decreased the potential for an eruption. Earthquake activity persisted through 20 March.

Tanaga - Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that earthquake activity near Tanaga had decreased in both rate and magnitude from the peak of the swarm recorded during 9-11 March. More than 800 earthquakes, including multiple M2 and above events, were detected beneath Tanaga Island at depths less than 9 km below sea level during 11-17 March. The decline in activity decreased the potential for an eruption. Earthquake activity persisted through 20 March.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.5 earthquake hits the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan.

5.8 earthquake hits Valparaiso, Chile.

5.4 earthquake hits the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.4 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.3 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits Magadanskaya Oblast, Russia.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

New Zealand - South Islanders woke to damage caused by a small tornado, floods, slips and buckets of rain on Tuesday. The West Coast, Otago and Southland bore the brunt of the damage, and warnings remain in place for Canterbury. Canterbury High Country and the Canterbury Plains have been issued heavy rain and strong wind watches, and the Banks Peninsula area are under a strong wind warning until 11pm Tuesday. The storm lifted roofs, damaged cars knocked out power to several thousand homes.

Wildlife

Millions of Fish Die - Australian River

Contractors are being hired to remove millions of rotting fish from a river in the Australian Outback after a unprecedented die-off following floods and hot weather, police said on Monday.

The fish started dying in the Darling River near the New South Wales town of Menindee on Friday. Officials say the die-off likely occurred because fish need more oxygen in hot weather, but oxygen levels in the water dropped after recent floods receded. Mass fish kills have been reported on the Darling River in recent weeks. Tens of thousands of fish were found at the same spot in late February, while there have been several reports of dead fish downstream toward Pooncarie, near the borders of South Australia and Victoria states.

Disease

Marburg Virus - Tanzania

In a follow-up on the outbreak of unknown etiology in Tanzania, health officials announced today the cause of the outbreak that killed five people and hospitalized three others in Kagera province is Marburg virus disease (MVD).

Chickenpox - Hanoi, Vietnam

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in Hanoi, the city recorded 70 cases of chickenpox this week, a slight decrease compared to the previous week when Hanoi saw 112 cases of chickenpox. Since the beginning of the year, Hanoi has recorded 548 cases of chickenpox, while during the same period in 2022, 4 cases were recorded.

Leptospirosis - Vanuatu

The Vanuatu Ministry of Health reports 32 cases of Leptospirosis and one death since the start of the year. This has prompted health officials to issue a red alert. The outbreak was exacerbated by the two tropical cyclones in March. From the 6 to 16 March, there were 10 new cases confirmed clinically.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits Costa Rica.

5.3 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.2 earthquake hits Romania.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Brazil - At least 5 municipalities in Ceará State in northeastern Brazil have declared a state of emergency after days of heavy rain triggered flooding and landslides. Dozens of people have been displaced and at least 3 fatalities reported. Three people from the same family died after heavy rain triggered a landslide which destroyed their home in Aratuba on 16 March 2023. A further 15 homes were damaged or deemed unsafe by authorities, forcing around 50 people to evacuate. Elsewhere in the state, over 30 families were pre-emptively evacuated from homes in neighbourhoods of Itapipoca City on 17 March due to flood and landslide threats.

California, USA - Swaths of California still saturated by ruthless storms will get walloped by another atmospheric river, spawning fears of renewed flooding and forcing some residents to flee. The state has already been hammered by at least 11 atmospheric rivers this season. An atmospheric river is like a fire hose that carries saturated air from the tropics to higher latitudes, dumping relentless rain or snow. The last, which struck California last week, left soil overly saturated and vulnerable to new flooding and rapid runoffs, the National Weather Service said. The next atmospheric river is expected to slam California from late Monday night through Wednesday.

Global Warming

UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Report

The UN's final IPCC report warns that drastic action must be taken immediately, but staving off disaster is within humanity's grasp. The world needs immediate action now to defuse a "climate time bomb" that will unleash catastrophic environmental effects and climate breakdown, United Nation (UN) scientists have said in the last of its four major assessment reports to governments on Monday (March 20).

Governments must make "rapid, deep and immediate" cuts to global carbon dioxide emissions, a greenhouse gas that is the largest contributor to human-caused climate change, in order to start to decrease annual emissions by 2025 and halve them by 2030, according to the final summary report by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). These carbon dioxide cuts must be made globally and across all industries if temperature changes are to remain at or below the dangerous threshold of 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.5 degrees Celsius) above pre-industrial temperatures, the IPCC said.

Scientists have warned that crossing this 1.5 C threshold greatly increases the risks of encountering tipping points that could unleash irreversible climate breakdown — such as the total collapse of most of the Greenland and West Antarctic ice sheets; extreme heat waves; severe droughts; water stress; and extreme weather across large parts of the globe.

Disease

Rift Valley Fever - Uganda

In a follow-up on the confirmed Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak in Mbarara District, Uganda, the outbreak has increased to 20 human cases, including four fatalities.

Monkeypox - Japan

The Japanese Ministry of Health reported Monday that the Tokyo, Osaka, and Ibaraki Prefectures reported 13 cases in men have been confirmed as monkeypox (mpox) as a result of laboratory tests.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits Kenai peninsula, Alaska.

5.0 earthquake has North Island, New Zealand.

5.0 earthquake hits Magadanskaya Oblast, Russia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Cameroon - Powerful flash floods raced through streets in the city of Buea, the capital of the Southwest Region of Cameroon, on 18 March 2023. Dozens of buildings and homes were destroyed or damaged, leaving families homeless. One person reportedly died after being dragged by flood water. A further five people were reported injured. The city of around 300,000 inhabitants is situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Cameroon. Local observers said heavy rain on 18 March flowed down the steep slopes and into residential and business areas of the city. The city’s poor drainage infrastructure was unable to cope.

Syria - Dozens of camps for displaced people in northwestern Syria have been damaged by flooding after a heavy storm hit the region late on Saturday. Torrential rain overnight in the western countryside of Idlib province damaged hundreds of shelters, many of which were recently set up to house the survivors of two February 6 earthquakes. Roads were also impassable in some areas.

Environment

Amazon Deforestation Rises

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest rose in February to the highest level on record for the month, preliminary official data showed on Friday, highlighting challenges the new government faces to stop the destruction.

Space research agency Inpe's data showed 322 square km (124 square miles) were cleared in the region last month, up 62% from February 2022 and well above the average of 166 square km for the period.

Global Warming

Marine Heatwaves

Heatwaves unfolding on the bottom of the ocean can be more intense and last longer than those on the sea surface, new research suggests, but such extremes in the deep ocean are often overlooked.

Bottom heatwaves ranged from 0.5 degrees Celisus to 3C warmer than normal temperatures and could last more than six months — much longer than heatwaves at the surface. Surface heatwaves can be picked up by satellites and can result in huge algal blooms. But, Amaya said, often no one knows a bottom marine heatwave is happening until the impacts show up in commercial bottom-dwelling species like lobsters and crabs.

The ocean has absorbed about 90% of the excess heat from global warming, with the ocean's average temperature increasing by about 0.9C over the last century. Marine heatwaves have become about 50% more frequent over the past decade. Past bottom marine heatwaves have decimated Pacific cod and snow crab populations which declined by 75% following the big marine heatwave in 2015. Warmer water, he said, can increase the energy needs of species at the same time that there's less prey available for them to eat, leading to more deaths and fewer births.

Disease

Botulism - Europe

From late February 2023 to 10 March 2023, 67 cases of botulism, probably of iatrogenic origin, related to intragastric injection of botulinum toxin (BTX) were reported in Germany (12), Austria (1), Switzerland (1) and Turkey (53). Information currently available indicates that all patients underwent medical intervention to reduce body weight between February 22 and March 1, 2023.

Among the 63 cases with available detailed information, 60 cases are reported in an epidemiological context with treatment administered by a private hospital in Istanbul, and another three cases are related to treatment in a private hospital in Izmir, Turkey. Due to the varying severity of the clinical picture of botulism, it is possible that some cases may still be identified.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.7 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador.

5.1 earthquake hits Mendoza, Argentina.

5.0 earthquake hits Antofagasta, Chile.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

California, USA - Large swaths of the Central Valley face elevated flood risks as rivers have swelled from melting snowpack after record storms hit California this winter. Flooding has spurred evacuation orders and warnings from the National Weather Service, with still more rain forecast for early next week. Evacuation orders have been issued for residents in Porterville, California, due to fast rising floodwaters. Water levels are quickly rising at Lake Success, forcing water to flow down to the Schaffer dam, creating dangerous conditions along the Tule River.

Global Warming

A Devastating Toxin Is Bubbling Up From the Permafrost

Trapped in all the permafrost encircling the northern reaches of the globe is an estimated 30 billion tons of carbon. It’s an unfathomable amount. But there’s something else lurking in the permafrost that has the potential to be more immediately dangerous to the people and wildlife living in the area: mercury.

Wildfires and volcanoes belch mercury, and, since the Industrial Revolution, so do coal-burning power plants and factories. Warm-air currents carry mercury in its inorganic heavy-metal form to the Arctic, where it settles into the soil and vegetation before being safely locked away in the deeply frozen permafrost.

In its inorganic form, mercury is less threatening to people. But as the permafrost thaws, mercury is finding its way into the soil and the region’s many ponds, rivers, and lakes. Once there, certain microbes can convert inorganic mercury into the form to be concerned about: neurotoxic methylmercury.

Disease

Diphtheria - Nigeria

In a follow-up on the diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reports a total of 377 suspected cases from seven (7) states across the country. Cumulatively, between week 19 (mid-May) of 2022 and week 9 ( end of February) of 2023, a total of 1,064 suspected cases were reported from 21 states.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.3 earthquake hits North Islands, New Zealand.

5.2 earthquake hits the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan.

5.1 earthquake hits Luzon, Philippines.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Java, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits Mindanao, Philippines.

5.0 earthquake hits North Island, New Zealand.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits eastern Xizang, China.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Malawi - As the full extent of the damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Freddy becomes clear, disaster authorities in Malawi report a steep increase in the number of fatalities, people missing and people displaced from their homes. Public infrastructure such as schools, health facilities and roads have suffered severe damage. An estimated 40,000 houses have been damaged, destroyed or deemed currently unsafe, forcing over 180,000 people to move from their homes. Over 300 camps have been set up as emergency accommodation. The number of displacements includes around 40,000 people in Chikwawa and over 37,000 in each of the districts of Mulanje and Nsanje. The Department of Disaster Management Affairs of Malawi (DoDMA) reports that 326 people have now lost their lives.

Disease

Anthrax - Russia

Two people were hospitalized with anthrax in Chuvashia, Tsivilsky municipal district, according to local Health Authorities. The therapeutic prognosis is favorable.

Chikungunya - Paraguay

The General Directorate of Health Surveillancereportedthat in the last three weeks (Epi Weeks 8, 9 and 10), there are a total of 11,649 cases of chikungunya. The epidemiological curve is currently at a plateau, an apparent decrease in cases is observed, however, the epidemic has spread throughout the country.

Polio - Burundi

The Ministère de la Santé Publique declared an outbreak of circulating poliovirus type 2 (CVDPV 2) today after confirming eight polioviruses, the first such detection in more than three decades.

Unknown Disease - Tanzania

The Tanzania Ministry of Health reports receiving information about the presence of a disease that is not yet known in Kagera province in Bukoba district villages, Maruku and Kanyangereko districts, Bulinda and Butayaibega villages. A total of 7 people have flu, vomiting, bleeding in various areas of the body and kidney failure. 5 People have died.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits northwestern Iran.

5.0 earthquake hits Alberta, Canada.

5.0 earthquake hits the State of Yap, Micronesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Iran-Iraq border.

Wildlife

Croc Tragedy

Approximately 10,000 rare white crocodiles have died of starvation and thirst as Kenya’s Lake Kamnarok, Africa’s second-largest crocodile habitat, dried up during the past year.

A shift in climate has also caused many other lakes across the East African nation, as well as the rivers that feed them, to became parched landscapes.

Kamnarok’s surviving crocs have been forced to move upstream in the lake’s diminishing watershed. This is increasing their sometimes violent contacts with the human population and livestock.

Spider Wars

A growing population of invasive brown widow spiders is wiping out native black widows in southern parts of the United States even though there seems to be enough food and space for both species to coexist. Since arriving in Florida from what’s believed to be their native Africa, the more aggressive brown widows have quickly expanded across the country, outbreeding and killing off their darker cousins.

This should be of some comfort to residents in the region since brown widow bites are far less venomous to humans than those of black widows, with symptoms usually limited to mild skin irritations.

Environment

Early Cherry Blossoms

The famed cherry trees of Tokyo began to blossom on March 14, matching the earliest date on record since observations began in 1953. The Japan Meteorological Agency said the "Somei Yoshino" variety buds appeared at the Yasukuni Shrine on the same day in 2020 and 2021 as well, which is 10 days earlier than the longterm average.

The agency says the trees should be in full bloom across the capital in the next week and should soon burst forth earlier than normal in other parts of the country, due to rising temperatures. Residents will be able to gather in public spaces to enjoy the blooms for the first time since the pandemic.

Oceans of Plastic

The amount of microplastic debris littering the world’s oceans has undergone a dramatic surge since 2005, with researchers saying there are now 2.5 million tonnes of it in the sea. Marcus Eriksen and Lisa Erdle at the 5 Gyres Institute in Santa Monica, California, and their colleagues say scarce data on plastic pollution between 1979 and 1990 make it impossible to see how fast it was increasing during that period.

Observations between 1990 and 2004 show it was fluctuating with no clear trend. But concentrations have risen in recent years to more than 10 times their levels in 2005. A legally binding treaty among 175 countries to control plastic pollution is expected to be drafted and debated by 2024.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 46.0 degrees Celsius (115 degrees F) at Matam, Senegal.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 59.0 degrees Celsius (-74 degrees F) 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.

Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing activity for the week 8 March - 14 March 2023

Ahyi - Mariana Islands (USA) : Unrest at Ahyi Seamount continued during 8-14 March. A few events per day were detected by pressure sensors on Wake Island, 2,270 km E, during 7-11 March. Almost continuous hydroacoustic signals from roughly the direction of Ahyi were recorded by the sensors during 11-13 March, and then signals stopped abruptly on 14 March. Discolored water was visible in satellite images during 12-14 March; the discoloration extended about 35 km at the end of the week.

Aira - Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported ongoing eruptive activity at Minamidake Crater and Showa Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) during 6-13 March. Incandescence at Minamidake was visible nightly. Five eruptive events at Minamidake were recorded and explosions occurred on 8 and 11 March. Ash plumes rose as high as 1.7 km above the crater rim, and during 10-13 March large blocks were ejected as far as 500 m from the vent. Seven eruptive events occurred at Showa during 6-10 March, producing ash plumes that rose as high as 2.7 km above the crater rim and ejecting large blocks 800 m from the crater.

Chiles-Cerro Negro - Colombia-Ecuador : A seismic swarm at the Cerro Negro de Mayasquer and Chiles volcanoes, called the Chiles-Cerro Negro volcanic complex (CCNVC), began on 9 March according to the Instituto Geofísico de la Escuela Politécnica Nacional (IGEPN) and the Observatorio Vulcanológico de Pasto (OVP-Colombia). A noted increase in the intensity of seismic signals occurred at 0430 and was followed by an increase in the number of volcano-tectonic events (indicating fracturing rock) at 0900. By 1630, there were around 2,200 earthquakes recorded by the seismic network, and 520 of those events had epicenters located within 2.5 km S of Chiles at depths of 1-6 km below the summit (4,700 m elevation). The swarm was accompanied by deformation which was first detected on 28 February. The swarm intensified during 9-10 March, and 86 earthquakes were above M2. At 2010 on 9 March a M 3.4 earthquake was felt by residents in nearby towns in both Colombia and Ecuador; earthquakes recorded at 0137 and 0526 on 10 March were also felt. On 10 March earthquakes were occurring at a rate of around 200 events per hour and were mostly comprised of volcano-tectonic events (indicating fracturing rock) and very-low-frequency earthquakes (indicating fluid movement). At least 4,500 events had been recorded by 1214 on 10 March. There were 4,244-4,915 daily earthquakes during 11-13 March.

Cotopaxi - Ecuador : IG reported that the eruption at Cotopaxi continued during 8-14 March. Gas-and-steam emissions were visible on most days rising as high as 1.5 km above the crater rim and drifting in multiple directions. On 10 March a gas-and-steam plume with low ash content rose as high as 1 km and drifted S. Weather clouds sometimes prevented observations, especially on 11 March.

Ebeko - Paramushir Island (Russia) : KVERT reported that moderate activity at Ebeko was ongoing during 2-9 March. According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island, about 7 km E) explosions during 3, 5-7, and 9 March generated ash plumes that rose as high as 3.6 km (11,800 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 7 and 9 March. Ashfall was reported in Severo-Kurilsk on 3 March.

Great Sitkin - Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 8-14 March. Satellite images and web camera views were mostly cloudy, though elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 8-9 March. Seismicity was low.

Krakatau - Sunda Strait : The Darwin VAAC reported that during 1240-1300 on 10 March continuous ash emissions from Anak Krakatau rose 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and NW based on satellite images, weather models, and PVMBG webcams. Only steam-and-gas emissions were visible on webcam images on 11 March.

Lewotolok - Lembata Island : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Lewotolok was ongoing during 8-14 March. Daily white gas-and-steam plumes rose as high as 700 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. A few webcam images posted with the observatory reports showed incandescence at the summit.

Sabancaya - Peru : Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP) reported moderate levels of activity at Sabancaya during 27 February-5 March with a daily average of 46 explosions. Gas-and-ash plumes rose as high as 2.6 km above the summit and drifted NW, W, and SW. Four thermal anomalies originating from the lava dome in the summit crater were identified in satellite data.

San Miguel - Eastern El Salvador : MARN reported increased emissions at San Miguel during 7-9 March. Gas emissions began increasing along with seismicity at 2252 on 7 March and were continuous at least through the morning of 8 March. A total of 12 emissions were recorded, with the last one occurring at 1210 on 9 March. Some of the gas emissions contained ash, with the most intense period causing minor ashfall in El Tránsito (10 km S), La Morita (6 km W), and La Piedrita (3 km W), and a sulfur odor in Piedra Azul (5 km SW).

Semeru - Eastern Java : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 8-14 March. Weather clouds sometimes prevented views of the volcano, though ash plumes were visible each day. On 8 March white-and-gray ash plumes that were sometimes dense rose as high as 300-700 m above the summit and drifted N and NE. During 9-10 March dense white, gray, and brown ash plumes rose 500-600 m and drifted SW and S. At least six white-and-gray ash plumes of variable densities were visible on 11 March rising 600-800 m and drifting N, W, and S. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 500-700 m and drifted N, NE, and SW during 12-14 March.

Sheveluch - Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that the ongoing eruption at Sheveluch was generally characterized by explosions, hot avalanches, lava-dome extrusion, and strong fumarolic activity. A daily thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images during 2-9 March and ash plumes drifted as far as 118 km E during 4-5 March.

Suwanosejima - Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that the eruption at Suwanosejima's Ontake Crater continued during 6-13 March. A total of 18 explosions were recorded, sending ash plumes as high as 2.3 km above the crater rim and ejecting large blocks as far as 400 m from the vent. Crater incandescence was visible at night. Occasional ashfall was reported in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW). On 8 March grayish-white plumes were seen rising from the vent during an overflight. No other changes were noted compared to the last overflight conducted on 29 September 2022.

Villarrica - Central Chile : SERNAGEOMIN reported that the eruption at Villarrica was ongoing during 8-14 March. Webcam images on 13 March showed incandescence above the crater rim from Strombolian activity.

Whakaari/White Island - North Island (New Zealand) : On 10 March GeoNet reported continuing unrest at Whakaari/White Island characterized by significant gas-and-steam emissions and increasing gas emissions. Significant amounts of steam and gas at temperatures of around 240 degrees Celsius were measured during an observation flight on 2 March and a gas flight on 9 March. Gas emissions had increased but remained within normal limits. Large steam plumes, which were likely enhanced due to weather conditions, were visible from the mainland rising above the volcano on 5 March. Significant rain during the previous month raised the water levels in the crater lake and some of the smaller pools; geysering and bubbling from underwater fumaroles was visible.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.9 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.5 earthquake hits south of Java, Indonesia.

5.3 earthquake hits Kepulauan Talaud, Inodnesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Solomon Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Indonesia - At least 4 people have died and 7 are missing after floods and landslides in the provinces of West Java, South Sulawesi, Lampung and South Sumatra in Indonesia over the last few days. Meanwhile, search and rescue operations at the site of the massive landslide in Serasan, Natuna Regency, have found the bodies of 46 victims. As of 12 March, 9 people were still missing.

Turkey - Disasters authorities in Turkey report that at least 14 people have now died in the flood that swept through areas of Şanlıurfa and Adıyaman in the southeast of the country on 15 March 2023.

USA - An atmospheric river dumped more torrential rain on California on Wednesday, forcing evacuations, power outages and road closures, while the remnants of a powerful Nor'easter blizzard buried much of upstate New York and New England under snow.

Cyclone Freddy

Cyclone Freddy, which finally dissipated after battering Southeast Africa, has likely broken a number of mindblowing records since it formed in early February. The monstrous storm has crossed the Indian Ocean and made landfall three separate times, and may be the most energetic and long-lasting storm ever recorded. Freddy was first named on Feb. 6 after forming off the north Australian coast. Since then, it has traveled more than 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers) across the southern Indian Ocean to southeast Africa. The death toll from Tropical Cyclone Freddy has passed 300 people.

Environment

Plastiglomerates

The geology of Brazil's volcanic Trindade Island has fascinated scientists for years, but the discovery of rocks made from plastic debris in this remote turtle refuge is sparking alarm.

The pollution mainly comes from fishing nets, which is very common debris on Trinidade Island's beaches. The nets are dragged by the marine currents and accumulate on the beach. When the temperature rises, this plastic melts and becomes embedded with the beach's natural material. The garbage in the sea and the plastic dumped incorrectly in the oceans is becoming geological material preserved in the earth's geological records.

Disease

Measles - Nepal

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) reports there is a measles outbreak in Nepal. Between 24 November 2022 and 10 March 2023, a total of 690 measles cases, including one associated death (CFR 0.14%) have been reported from seven districts in western Nepal.

Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity - New activity for the week 8 March - 14 March 2023

Karangetang - Sangihe Islands : Webcam images of Karangetang posted in PVMBG daily reports showed very minor incandescence at the summit Main Crater (S crater) during 8-14 March. Short, dimly incandescent trails on images from 8 and 10 March were possibly from avalanches. According to the Darwin VAAC at 1710 on 9 March an ash plume rose to 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S. A large thermal anomaly was visible in images from 0550 and 0930 on 10 March.

Merapi - Central Java : BPPTKG reported that the eruption at Merapi (on Java) continued during 3-9 March and seismicity remained at high levels. The SW lava dome produced 19 lava avalanches that traveled as far as 1.7 km down the SW flank (upstream in the Bebeng, Boyong, and Sat/Putih drainages). No significant morphological changes to the central and SW lava domes were evident in webcam images. Activity increased on 11 March with collapses of the SW lava dome. During 1212-1500 a series of 21 lava avalanches from the SW lava dome produced pyroclastic flows that traveled less than 4 km down the Bebeng and Krasak drainages. Ash plumes rose from the dome and in dense “curtains” from along the pyroclastic-flow deposits on the SW flank. The ash plumes rose as high as 3 km above the summit during 1212-1306 and drifted W and NW, causing ashfall in several areas downwind, especially in Magelang. Avalanches and pyroclastic flows from additional collapses continued to be recorded on 12 March. A total of 15 avalanches descended the SW flank as far as 2.5 km and 21 pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum distance of 2 km SW. White-and-gray ash plumes of variable densities rose as high as 2.5 km above the summit and drifted N, NW, W, and E based on Darwin VAAC notices and PVGHM VONAs. A drone was deployed to inspect the SW dome and flank, the deposits, and the summit dome; the end of the pyroclastic-flow deposits in the Bebeng drainage was 3.7 km from the center of the summit crater. By early on 13 March a total of 60 pyroclastic flows had been mainly channeled down the Bebeng. On 13 March there was a total of 36 lava avalanches; two pyroclastic flows went as far as 1.5 km down the SW flank. The Darwin VAAC reported that at 0100, 0630, and 0900 ash plumes rose as high as 4.3 km (14,000 ft) a.s.l., or 1.4 km above the summit, and drifted NW. A VONA issued on 14 March described a gray-and-brown ash plume that rose 2.5 km above the summit and drifted E and SE.

Nyamulagira - DR Congo : The Observatoire Volcanologique de Goma (OVG) reported increased activity at Nyamulagira on 13 March. Seismicity indicated magma movement at shallow depths towards the central part of the crater and incandescence above the crater rim was visible beginning at around 1800. The Toulouse VAAC reported at 1130 on 14 March that lava fountains were observed, and an eruption plume rose 1.5 km above the crater rim, based on information from OVG. The VAAC noted that the plume was not identified in satellite images due to weather cloud cover.

Takawangha - Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that the earthquake swarm at Takawangha that began in November 2022 started to decline on 1 March. Seismicity abruptly increased again on 8 March and was sustained, with M4 or lower earthquakes occurring at depths of less than about 6 km below sea level. Earthquake activity beneath Takawangha volcano and nearby Tanaga Volcano (8 km W), both on Tanaga Island, continued at a high rate during 8-9 March, with more than 100 events per hour at times. Sustained seismicity indicated an increased potential for an eruption. Earthquakes beneath Tanaga and Takawangha occurred at a rate of up to several events per minute during 10-11 March and at a slightly reduced rate during 12-14 March. The earthquakes had magnitudes up to about 4 and were mostly occurring at depths less than about 6 km.

Tanaga- Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that earthquake activity near Tanaga began to increase on 4 March with events up to the M2 range and located 9-18 km deep. Seismicity again increased around 1330 on 7 March and by 2045 earthquakes were occurring at a rate of 2-3 per minute. AVO raised the Aviation Color Code to Yellow (the second lowest level on a four-color scale) and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory the second lowest level on a four-level scale). The seismicity was sustained during 8-9 March and had shallowed to depths less than about 6 km, indicating increased potential for an eruption. Seismicity was also elevated at Takawangha, 8 km E; both volcanoes are located on Tanaga Island. Earthquakes beneath Tanaga Island occurred at a rate of up to several per minute, with the largest event during 8-9 March, a M3.9, located under Tanaga Volcano. Earthquakes beneath Tanaga and Takawangha occurred at a rate of up to several events per minute during 10-11 March and at a slightly reduced rate during 12-14 March. The earthquakes had magnitudes up to around 4.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.7 earthquake hits the central Mediterranean Sea.

5.5 earthquake hits the Pacific Antarctic ridge.

5.5 earthquake its off the coast of Araucania, Chile.

5.1 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.0 earthquake hits the central mid-Atlantic ridge.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Malawi and Mozambique - As many as 190 people have now died in Malawi as a result of floods, mudslides and strong winds brought by Tropical Cyclone Freddy. Meanwhile the search for 37 people still missing continues. Over 4,000 people have been displaced from their homes.

Colombia - Days of heavy rain triggered severe flooding in parts of the Cesar Department in Colombia where hundreds of homes have been damaged. Heavy rainfall from 08 March caused flooding in the municipality of Curumaní on 11 March. The Animito, San Pedro, and Palmar rivers and the San Ignacio and the La Cubana streams all broke their banks. More than 600 homes have been severely damaged in affected areas. Many residents have lost material possessions. Wide areas of crops have also been damaged. Heavy rainfall has caused flooding and landslides in other parts of Colombia in recent days.

Turkey - Disaster authorities in Turkey report at least 1 person has died and 4 are still missing after torrential rain caused flash flooding in parts of the southeastern Şanlıurfa and Adıyaman provinces. Flooding struck on 15 March 2023 following heavy rain. According to figures from Turkey’s General Directorate of Meteorology, in a 24-hour period to 15 March, Karaköprü in Şanlıurfa recorded 104.5 mm of rain and Çelikhan in Adıyaman recorded 125.6 mm Areas of neighbouring Malatya Province also recorded very heavy rain, with Doğanşehir recorded 151.4 mm during the same period. Local media reported the rivers broke their banks in Adiyaman Province. Severe flooding was also reported in the city of Urfa (officially Şanlıurfa) and areas of Şanlıurfa Province. On 15 March authorities warned residents of several districts of the city to evacuate their homes.

Brazil - Heavy rains in areas of the state of Amazonas in northwestern Brazil on 12 March triggered deadly landslides in the state capital Manaus. At least 11 houses were destroyed after a landslide in the Jorge Teixeira neighbourhood. Eight bodies were located under the rubble and debris. Three people were rescued alive. Around 130 houses have been deemed at risk or unsafe in the Jorge Teixeira neighbourhood, forcing dozens of families to evacuate.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Argentina

Officials scrambled to tame a wildfire raging in a northeastern Corrientes province of Argentina that has consumed around 7,413 acres. Images showed huge smoke clouds billowing from the wildfire and traffic jams caused by the disaster as large patches of wilderness burned uncontrollably. Firefighters, police and two water-bombing planes have been working since Sunday to douse the fire which is the largest wildfire reported in 2023.

Wildfires - Australia

The Alpha Road Tambaroora bushfire which was sparked by lightning more than a week ago has burnt through more than 18,000 hectares. At least six homes have been destroyed. Almost 200 sheep have been euthanased by vets and hundreds more did not survive the fire.

Disease

Dengue Fever/Chikungunya - Brazil

The State Department of Health of Minas Gerais (SES) reports through March 12, 83,911 probable dengue fever cases, including 25,265 confirmed cases were reported. There are nine confirmed deaths from dengue in Minas Gerais and 40 deaths under investigation. Concerning chikungunya and Zika, state officials report 27,514 probable and 7,555 confirmed chikungunya cases.

Leptospirosis - New Caledonia

New Caledonia health officials report a rise in leptospirosis cases since the beginning of the year. As of 28 February 2023, 65 leptospirosis cases have been confirmed. This includes 25 cases in January and 40 cases in February. There was in total 56 hospitalizations (86%) and 1 death recorded.

Avian Influenza - Canada

The British Columbia government reports testing has confirmed eight skunks found dead in late February in Richmond and Vancouver are positive for avian influenza. The skunks were found in residential areas in both cities and were taken to B.C.’s Animal Health Centre due to concerns they may have been deliberately poisoned.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.2 earthquake hits eastern New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

5.5 earthquake hits Catamarca, Argentina.

5.4 earthquake hits New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

5.2 earthquake hits southern Peru.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

50 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are currently no active tropical storm systems.

Newsbytes:

Malawi and Mozambique - At least 99 people have died after Tropical Cyclone Freddy caused floods, mudslides and wind damage in parts of Malawi. Earlier the storm had made a second landfall in Mozambique, where disaster authorities report at least 10 people have died and thousands have been displaced. Freddy has been a named tropical cyclone for over 30 days as it crossed the entire South Indian Ocean and travelled more than 8,000 kilometres, affecting Mauritius and La Réunion on its long journey en route to making landfall in Madagascar on 21 February 2023. The storm then spent several days tracking over Mozambique, bringing heavy rains and flooding. Freddy then remarkably looped back towards the Mozambique Channel and picked up energy from the warm waters and moved towards the southwestern coast of Madagascar, causing further flooding and damages on 05 March, before returning back towards Mozambique for a second time, and then on to Malawi.

Peru - At least 8 people have lost their lives and 1 is still missing after heavy rain and flooding in seven departments in Peru since 08 March 2023. Disaster authorities in Peru reported heavy rains and floods in northern Peru were caused by the presence of cyclone “Yaku” off the coast of the country.

Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Johns Hopkins University has stopped collecting Covid-19 data as at 10 March 2023. This will accordingly be the final of the regular covid-19 updates.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease - Philippines

The Iloilo Provincial Health Office Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PHO-PESU) recently reported that all 2,407 cases of the HFMD from Jan. 1 to Feb. 25 are tagged as recovered.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.2 earthquake hits the Bougainville region, Papua New Guinea.

5.1 earthquake hits the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan.

5.1 earthquake hits northern Peru.

5.0 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.0 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical Cyclone 11s (Freddy) continues to persist, bringing heavy rain to Mozambique.

Newsbytes:

Australia - Residents of several towns in Northern Queensland in Australia have been airlifted to safety after record flooding. Evacuations were reported in Gregory Downs and Burketown. Significant major flooding has been observed in the upper parts of the Nicholson and Leichhardt catchment at Riversleigh, Gregory Downs and Doomadgee township. Levels along the Gregory River at Gregory Downs peaked at 14.69 metres on 10 March, where the major flood level is 10 metres.

Disease

Rabies - Philippines

The Philippines Department of Health’s Epidemiology Bureau reports 55 human rabies cases/deaths through February 25 this year. This is a 8 percent increase in cases/deaths compared to the same period in 2022 (51). Only three of the 17 regions in the country have not reported a rabies case this year to date.

Monkeypox - Mexico

The Mexico Ministry of Health reports that, in the last 14 days, a total of 74 probable cases and 51 confirmed cases of mpox or monkeypox have been identified in the country.

Covid-19 - New York City

Wild rats in the New York City sewer system and elsewhere in the city have tested positive for Covid-19 Alpha, Delta and Omicron variants.

Syphilis - Mississippi, USA

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), in the last several years, Mississippi has experienced sharp increases in the number of reported cases of primary and secondary syphilis. Between 2016 and 2020, reported primary and secondary syphilis cases rose by more than 125%, to 741 cases and a rate of 24.9 cases per 100,000 population in 2020, one of the highest rates among US states.