Global Volcanism Program Daily Volcanic Activity Report
The Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program reported ongoing eruptive activity at Dukono volcano in Indonesia as of October 20, 2026. The report tracks multiple volcanoes worldwide that are currently exhibiting eruptive behavior.
Kīlauea Volcano Update: Monitoring Eruptive Hazards
The U.S. Geological Survey reports that Kīlauea's summit vents are being monitored following recent tephra coverage and lava fountaining. Inflationary tilt has resumed, and officials continue to coordinate with local agencies regarding eruptive hazards.
Police helicopter rescues hiker after severe cramps
A 41-year-old hiker was rescued by a police helicopter on Grimming mountain after suffering from severe, body-wide cramps. Six mountain rescuers and local alpine police assisted in the operation after the hiker's companion called for help.
Ibu Volcanic Ash Advisory
The Ibu volcano in Indonesia continues to show explosive activity, with a volcanic ash plume rising to 7,000 feet. The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center in Darwin is monitoring the plume's movement.
Rescuers say TikTok and Instagram posts don't prepare hikers for dangers
Mountain rescue teams in Wales and England report that rescues of young adults have more than doubled since 2019. Rescuers attribute this trend to social media influence, which often fails to convey the actual risks of mountain environments.
Trango Tower highline walked by Lukas Irmler, Antonia Rüede-Passul
Alpinists Lukas Irmler and Antonia Rüede-Passul successfully completed the first-ever highline on Trango Tower in Pakistan. The feat was achieved on August 17, 2026, at an altitude of 6,251 meters.
Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: Krakatau and Dukono
The Smithsonian/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for mid-October 2026 highlights new eruptive activity at Krakatau in Indonesia. Dukono also continues to show persistent eruptive activity throughout the reporting period.
Kilauea Daily Update
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to monitor episodic fountaining and spatter activity within the Kilauea summit caldera. Recent reports indicate variable levels of volcanic activity at the Halemaumau Crater.
When an avalanche killed climber Nirmal Purja, his friends faced the hardest mission of all
Mountaineer Mingma G recounts the difficult recovery mission to bring home the bodies of friends lost in the Broad Peak avalanche. The story provides insight into the risks faced by high-altitude climbers in the Karakoram.
Tragic Climbing Accident on Ben Nevis Leaves One Dead and Another Injured
A 22-year-old climber died following a fall on Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK, while his partner sustained serious injuries. Rescue operations were significantly hampered by challenging weather conditions and difficult terrain.
The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: October 1-7, 2026
Recent volcanic activity reports indicate ongoing eruptions at Telica in Nicaragua, where lava flows were observed on the western flank. The aviation color code for the volcano was lowered to green on October 5th following a decrease in activity.
Volcanic Activity Worldwide 8 Oct 2026
Volcanic ash advisories have been issued for the Sangay volcano in Ecuador. Monitoring agencies report that ash is expected to move north, though no significant activity is anticipated after the current advisory period.
Documentary on ill-fated K2 expedition released
A new documentary directed by Amir Bar-Lev explores the deadly winter season on K2 and the historic first winter ascent by a Nepali team. The film highlights the socio-economic forces in modern mountaineering and the achievements of Pakistani climbers.
The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: September 24-30, 2026
The Washington Volcanic Ash Advisory Center reported diffuse ash plumes from Masaya volcano rising to 2.4 km. The volcano has been erupting frequently, with recent activity captured by satellite and webcam imagery.
Nearly 100 earthquakes shake Kīlauea; volcanic unrest prompts park closure
Nearly 100 earthquakes were recorded beneath the summit of Kīlauea, leading the National Park Service to close the Keanakākoʻi area for safety. The largest earthquake measured a magnitude of 3.4 as volcanic unrest continues.
Glacial Lake Risks Highlighted in Pakistan
Pakistan’s space agency warned that the number of unfrozen, potentially dangerous glacial lakes has risen significantly due to warming. These lakes pose a threat of sudden flooding to communities in the Karakoram region.
Himlung Himal Avalanche Claims Multiple Lives
An avalanche struck a base camp on the 7,126m peak, killing at least seven and leaving others missing during a search operation. The incident occurred during a period of unstable mountain conditions.
Climbers Rescued in Golden Ears Park
Two climbers were stranded mid-climb on a challenging route in Golden Ears Park, requiring a complex nighttime helicopter hoist rescue. The rescue operation was successful despite difficult terrain and darkness.
Kilauea Summit Eruption Continues
Low-level eruptive activity continues at the summit of Kilauea, with scientists monitoring potential for new lava fountaining episodes. The activity is currently confined to the summit caldera area.
Mount Etna Ash Disrupts Air Travel
Intensive ash emissions from Europe's most active volcano caused significant disruptions at Catania airport, suspending flights on multiple occasions. Authorities continue to track wind patterns to manage airport operations.
Record September Heat in the Alps
Switzerland experienced record-breaking late-September temperatures, with unprecedented highs recorded on the northern side of the Alps. The heatwave has accelerated snowmelt at higher elevations.
Ten climbers missing after avalanche hits Himalayan base camp
An avalanche struck a 7,126m peak on the Nepal-Tibet border, leaving ten climbers missing. Poor weather conditions have severely hampered rescue efforts by helicopters and ground teams.
Landslides Block Key Nepal-China Trade Route
Incessant rainfall caused landslides along the Jomsom-Korala highway, obstructing the vital trade route and stranding goods. Local authorities are working to clear the debris from the mountain pass.
Volcanic Activity Worldwide 25 Sep 2026
Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, reported ongoing ash emissions as of September 25, 2026. The eruption continues to be monitored by local volcanic observatories.
Dhaulagiri Expeditions Retreat Due to Weather
All climbers at Dhaulagiri base camp retreated to safer locations after forecasts of heavy rainfall and unstable conditions. The retreat was a precautionary measure against potential avalanches.
Fatal Lightning Strike on Mt. Timpanogos
A 19-year-old hiker was killed by a lightning strike while taking shelter in a metal shack on the summit of Mount Timpanogos during a storm. Search and rescue teams recovered the body following the severe weather event.
Volcanic activity worldwide 23 Sep 2026: Santiaguito, Fuego, Popocatépetl, Semeru, Reventador
Multiple volcanoes worldwide continue to show activity, with eruptions reported at Sakurajima and ongoing ash emissions observed at Fuego. Monitoring agencies continue to track volcanic ash movement and provide advisories for aviation safety.
Manaslu Climbing Season Officially Closed
Persistent rain, heavy snowfall, and dangerous mountain conditions forced expedition operators to shut down the 2026 Manaslu season for safety. Authorities confirmed the closure to prevent further risk to climbers.
Young Sherpas Are Choosing Careers Beyond the Mountains—Who Will Guide the Himalayas?
A growing trend of young Sherpas pursuing careers outside the mountaineering industry is creating a labor shift in Nepal. This transition raises concerns about the future of professional guiding in the Himalayas.
Japan to charge Mount Fuji climbers for off-season helicopter rescues
Both Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures have announced plans to charge for off-season rescues on Mount Fuji. The move aims to prevent accidents and deter unprepared climbers during the winter months when trails are officially closed.
Japan to Charge Climbers for Mount Fuji Helicopter Rescues
Local governments are implementing fees for helicopter rescues and mandatory climb notifications to curb unauthorized ascents during the closed season. This policy follows a trend of increased accidents involving foreign tourists on the mountain.
Yamanashi Prefecture to Charge Climbers for Mount Fuji Helicopter Rescues
Yamanashi Prefecture plans to implement a fee for helicopter rescues during the off-season to deter reckless climbing. The measure targets climbers who fail to submit mandatory climbing plans.
Yamanashi Pref. decides to charge for helicopter rescues on Mt. Fuji
Yamanashi Prefecture will begin charging for disaster prevention helicopter rescues on Mount Fuji starting next September. The policy aims to discourage unauthorized off-season ascents.
Mount Shasta Climber Rescued After 500ft Fall
A climber survived a 500-foot slide down Avalanche Gulch on Mount Shasta, sustaining severe injuries before being airlifted to safety. Rescue teams utilized a helicopter to extract the individual from the remote slope.
Mount Semeru Erupts Multiple Times
Indonesia's highest mountain on Java erupted three times in one day, sending ash plumes up to 1,000 meters above the summit. Monitoring stations remain on high alert for further volcanic activity.
Yamanashi to charge climbers for Mount Fuji helicopter rescues
Yamanashi Prefecture is implementing new fees for helicopter rescues on Mount Fuji during the off-season to deter reckless climbing. The measure follows a series of incidents involving under-prepared hikers on the mountain's closed trails.
Yamanashi to charge climbers for Mount Fuji helicopter rescues
Yamanashi Prefecture is planning to implement fees for helicopter rescues during the off-season to deter reckless climbing. The measure follows a series of incidents involving under-prepared hikers on the mountain.
Mt. Fuji may soon require off-season climbers to register with government
Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures are evaluating new regulations for Mount Fuji, including mandatory registration for off-season climbers. The move follows a series of accidents involving foreign tourists.
Mount Fuji ends hiking season with landslide, two rescues
The official climbing season for Mount Fuji concluded amid severe weather, including torrential rain and powerful gusts. A landslide partially buried vehicles, and local authorities conducted multiple rescues.
Japan may charge Mount Fuji climbers for off-season rescues
Both Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures are considering charging fees for helicopter rescues to manage the risks posed by under-prepared hikers. This proposal follows a series of incidents occurring after the official climbing season concluded on September 10.
Japan may charge Mount Fuji climbers for off-season rescues
Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures are considering implementing fees for helicopter rescues conducted outside the official climbing season. This proposal follows a series of incidents involving under-prepared hikers on the mountain.
Landslide hits Mount Fuji after heavy rain
Heavy rainfall triggered a landslide on Mount Fuji in September 2026. The incident occurred as the region experienced severe weather patterns affecting the mountain's stability.
Climate Change Risks Increase on Mont Blanc
Retreating glaciers, melting snow, and thawing permafrost have significantly increased the frequency of rockfalls on Western Europe’s highest peak. Experts warn that these environmental changes are altering traditional climbing routes.
Barbara Zangerl & Jacopo Larcher repeat Déjà (8c+) in Switzerland's Rätikon
Climbers Barbara Zangerl and Jacopo Larcher successfully repeated the difficult route 'Déjà' in the Rätikon range of Switzerland. This ascent highlights the ongoing high-level sport climbing activity in the Alps.
Anak Krakatau Eruption Disrupts Flights
An intense 25-hour eruptive episode at Anak Krakatau led to temporary closures of major airports in Indonesia due to heavy ash clouds. Aviation authorities monitored the plume to ensure safe flight paths.
Mount Shasta Hikers Rescued After Relying on AI for Trip Planning
Three novice hikers required rescue after using Google's Gemini AI to plan a summit attempt on Mount Shasta. The group became lost and one hiker suffered a knee injury, necessitating an overnight stay in the wilderness.
AI-Planned Mount Shasta Trip Leads to Stranded Hikers
Search and rescue personnel successfully recovered three hikers who became stranded on Mount Shasta after following an AI-generated itinerary. The incident has prompted officials to warn against relying solely on AI for safety-critical mountaineering decisions.
Friends trapped 11,000ft up notoriously dangerous California volcano after moronic mistake
Three men were rescued after becoming trapped on a California volcano while relying on AI tools for navigation and planning. The incident highlights the dangers of over-reliance on technology in high-altitude environments.
Mount Sinabung Alert Level Raised
Indonesian authorities raised the alert for Mount Sinabung to Level 3 following an eruption that sent ash 3.5 km above the summit. Local residents have been advised to maintain a safe distance from the crater.
Climber trapped on 6-inch ledge 10,000 feet up notorious California mountain after making disastrous mistake
A climber became stranded on a narrow ledge on a California mountain, requiring a complex rescue operation. High winds prevented the use of a helicopter, forcing rescuers to reach the individual on foot during the night.
Volunteer Rescue Team Saves Climber Stranded on Sierra Nevada Ledge
A climber was rescued after becoming stranded on a narrow ledge 10,000 feet up in the Sierra Nevada range. The individual had veered off the Mendenhall couloir route on Laurel Mountain before being reached by volunteers.
Volcanic Activity Report on Sinabung (Indonesia) — 27 August-2 September 2026
The Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program released a report detailing recent activity at Mount Sinabung. The report monitors seismic and eruptive patterns observed during the final week of August.
Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: Karangetang
The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi reported continued eruption activity at Karangetang's North Crater. Daily white plumes were observed rising up to 400 meters above the summit.
Collecting billions, ignoring safety: The fatal void in Nepal’s mountain rescues
Climbers and industry experts are criticizing the Nepalese government for failing to establish a permanent rescue committee despite generating significant revenue from mountaineering permits. The lack of infrastructure remains a major concern following high-altitude accidents.
Over 300 Foreign Climbers Set to Attempt Manaslu This Autumn
More than 300 foreign climbers are expected to attempt the summit of Mount Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak, during the upcoming autumn season. The influx of climbers highlights the mountain's continued popularity for high-altitude expeditions in Nepal.
Two alpinists found 34 years after disappearing
The remains of two alpinists who went missing over three decades ago have been discovered. The find provides closure to a long-standing mystery in the mountaineering community.
The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: August 13-19, 2026
The latest report summarizes ongoing volcanic activity globally, including reports on Semeru in Indonesia and activity in Vanuatu. These reports are part of a collaborative effort between the Smithsonian and the USGS to track volcanic hazards.
Nirmal Purja: How a generation of record-setting guides died in a disaster which killed a climbing legend
British-Nepali climber Nirmal Purja and several other guides were killed in an avalanche while leading an expedition on Broad Peak. The tragedy has been described as a devastating blow to the international mountaineering community.
Pakistan avalanche kills mountaineering icon Purja, Oman’s trailblazing climber Al Harthy
Renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja and Omani climber Nadhira Al Harthy were killed in an avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan's Karakoram range. The tragedy occurred during an expedition involving a 10-person international team.
Nims Purja, 5 Nepalis missing on Broad Peak
Local reports confirm that expedition guides and climbers were struck by an avalanche on the world's 12th highest mountain. The incident has sparked mourning across the mountaineering community in Nepal.
Three Bodies Recovered from Avalanche on Broad Peak, Search Continues for Remaining Climbers
Pakistani rescue teams have recovered three bodies from the site of the avalanche on Broad Peak. Search efforts continue for the remaining members of the expedition who were caught in the slide.
Top mountaineer Nirmal Purja confirmed dead after 11 hit by avalanche in Pakistan
Renowned Nepali climber Nirmal Purja and nine other expedition members died following an avalanche on Broad Peak. The tragedy occurred on the 8,051-meter mountain, which is considered a technically difficult climb.
Noted Climber Nirmal Purja Among 10 Dead in Avalanche in Pakistan
Renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja and nine other climbers died following an avalanche on Broad Peak. The tragedy occurred during a technically difficult expedition on the 8,051-meter mountain.
Record-breaking climber Nirmal Purja among those killed in avalanche
Nirmal Purja, known for his '14 Peaks' documentary, died in an avalanche while leading an expedition on Broad Peak. This tragedy follows his recent record-breaking 32nd climb of Mount Everest earlier in the year.
Ongoing volcanic ash emissions are reported at Reventador
Reventador volcano in Ecuador continues to exhibit volcanic activity. Recent advisories indicate ash plumes rising to 15,000 feet.
Puracé (Colombia): Explosive activity continues
The Puracé volcano in Colombia continues to exhibit explosive activity. Authorities have issued warnings regarding volcanic ash plumes reaching altitudes of 18,000 feet.
Volcanic Activity Worldwide 1 Aug 2026: Santiaguito, Fuego, Krakatau, Semeru, Sheveluch, Ibu
The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center reported significant ash plumes from multiple volcanoes globally, including Santiaguito and Fuego. These eruptions continue to pose risks to regional aviation and local mountain environments.
Famed Nepalese climber Nirmal Purja found dead after Pakistan Broad Peak avalanche
The body of renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja was recovered on Broad Peak in Pakistan following a fatal avalanche. Rescue teams continue to search for six other climbers who remain unaccounted for after the incident.
Pakistani rescuers recover 3 bodies of 10 climbers missing on Broad Peak after avalanche
Rescuers recovered three bodies following an avalanche on Broad Peak that left ten climbers missing. The expedition was led by the renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja, who was among those lost in the incident.
Pakistan searching for 10 climbers missing on Broad Peak recover 3 bodies
Rescue teams in Pakistan recovered three bodies following an avalanche on Broad Peak that left ten climbers missing. The expedition was led by the late Nirmal Purja.
Avalanche on Broad Peak: Nirmal Purja confirmed dead along with 9 other climbers
Renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja and nine other climbers were killed in an avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan. The tragedy occurred during an expedition in the Karakoram range.
Milly Young sets women's FKT on Matterhorn
Australian athlete Milly Young established a new Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Matterhorn. She completed the ascent and descent of the Lion's Ridge in 5 hours, 17 minutes, and 43 seconds.
A Deadly Week in the Mountains: Fall, Rockfall and a Disappearance
Three separate mountaineering tragedies occurred in the Alps, Andes, and Karakoram, claiming multiple lives. The incidents were exacerbated by extreme weather and unstable terrain, including a fatal rockfall on Mont Blanc.
Possible new climbs in Mont Blanc range by Richard Nadin, Simon Richardson, Micha Rinn
Alpinists established two potential new routes on the south side of the Mont Blanc massif above Val Ferret. The routes include the SW Spur of P3654m and 'Zahn der Zeit'.
Chinese mega-dam project in seismic zone raises alarms
Environmentalists and scientists have raised concerns over a massive dam project located in a seismically active Himalayan region. The project could impact local ecosystems and increase the risk of landslides in the area.
Himalaya roundup 2026: Bartek Ziemski, Hillary Dawa Sherpa and the 1008 ascents of Everest
A record-breaking 1,008 climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest during the 2026 spring season. The season was highlighted by the notable performances of Bartek Ziemski and Hillary Dawa Sherpa.
Hillary Dawa Sherpa Survived Six Days Alone on Mount Everest After Being Left on the Peak
Hillary Dawa Sherpa survived six days alone on Mount Everest after being separated from his team. His survival story has drawn significant attention within the mountaineering community.
Alaska's Mount McKinley climbing accident kills three Latvian climbers
Three Latvian climbers died following a fall near Denali Pass on Mount McKinley. A fourth member of the expedition was rescued in critical condition by the National Park Service.
The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: May 21-27, 2026
New activity or unrest was reported for four volcanoes during this period, with ongoing activity noted at 18 others. The report highlights specific monitoring of Popocatépetl in Mexico and Semeru in Indonesia.
3 climbers who fell near treacherous pass on Alaska's Mount McKinley are dead, 1 rescued
Three climbers died after falling near Denali Pass on Mount McKinley, while one survivor was rescued by park rangers. The incident occurred within a group of seven mountaineers during the peak climbing season.
Climbers rescued after being stranded in Warrumbungle National Park
Two climbers were winched to safety after spending a night stranded on a cliff in Warrumbungle National Park. The rescue was initiated after one climber sustained head injuries from a rockfall.
Visual Analysis Points to Bedrock as Likely Cause for Nepal’s Flash Floods
Scientific analysis suggests that glacier meltwater and thawing permafrost contributed to the destabilization of bedrock in the Himalayas. This process is believed to have triggered catastrophic flash floods in the region.
Poisoned Trekkers and Phantom Flights: Nepal Charges 32 in Massive Himalayan Rescue Scam
Prosecutors in Nepal have charged 32 individuals in connection with a massive insurance fraud scheme involving fake medical emergencies. Trekkers were allegedly fed baking soda to induce illness, leading to unnecessary and expensive helicopter evacuations.
Avalanche on Nepal's Yalung Ri mountain kills at least seven, officials say
An avalanche on Mount Yalung Ri in Nepal resulted in the deaths of five foreign climbers and two Nepali guides. At least five other individuals were injured at the base camp located 4,900 meters above sea level.
Coconut Connection: the Italian-Belgian climbing expedition to Canada's Baffin Island
An Italian-Belgian team completed a significant climbing expedition on Baffin Island. The project highlights ongoing exploration in the remote Arctic mountain regions.
First ascents of Kaikiawila, Ngoku and other new climbs in Angola
A Spanish team completed several first ascents on granite mountains in Angola's Cuanza Sur province. The expedition explored previously unclimbed faces in the region.