Alaska Volcano Observatory Monitors Two Active Volcanoes
The Great Sitkin and Shishaldin volcanoes remain under active surveillance for ongoing eruption and seismic unrest.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Current Conditions
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The Alaska Volcano Observatory is closely monitoring two volcanoes currently exhibiting activity. The Great Sitkin Volcano continues to produce lava, while the Shishaldin Volcano shows signs of low-level seismic unrest.
Why it matters
Continuous monitoring of these volcanoes is essential for assessing volcanic hazards and maintaining aviation safety across the region. Scientific tracking helps provide early warnings should volcanic conditions escalate.
The Great Sitkin Volcano, with a summit elevation of 5,709 feet, remains at a Watch alert level. The Shishaldin Volcano, reaching 9,373 feet, is currently under an Advisory alert level due to detected seismic activity.
The players
Alaska Volcano Observatory
This joint program of the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, and the Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys monitors volcanic activity in Alaska.
The details
Great Sitkin continues to experience a slow eruption of lava within its summit crater, characterized by the steady growth of the lava dome's south lobe. Meanwhile, Shishaldin is exhibiting low-level unrest, with steam emissions documented by local web cameras and detected via a geodetic network.
Timeline
The eruption at Great Sitkin Volcano began in July 2021.
The last recorded explosion at Great Sitkin occurred in May 2021.
Small earthquakes and tremors were detected at Shishaldin on October 21-22, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
The alert levels for Great Sitkin and Shishaldin follow the standard safety protocols defined by the National Weather Service's Aviation Color Code thresholds.
Residents and pilots operating near these volcanic sites should stay informed by reviewing official aviation color codes and volcanic activity updates. Adhering to airspace advisories is essential for those traveling or conducting operations in the vicinity of these peaks.
The takeaway
Maintaining constant vigilance over volcanic activity is a critical aspect of regional disaster preparedness in Alaska. Observers should continue to monitor official channels for any changes in the alert status or aviation color codes.
Further reading
For more information on regional geological activity, visit the Current Conditions page.
More information
View the most recent data regarding ongoing volcanic activity on the Great Sitkin Volcano monitoring data portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Usgs.
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