Earthquake & Volcano Monitor — 2026-05-12

Seismic Activity

The global seismic picture remains active heading into May 12, 2026. According to PlainQuake, 2026 has logged 2,972 total M4+ events to date, with 32 significant M6+ earthquakes and a maximum recorded magnitude of 7.5 for the year.

At Soufrière Hills volcano (Montserrat), an isolated M 3.7 volcano-tectonic (V-T) earthquake was recorded in the past 24 hours, a notable signal for a system that remains under close watch.

No major damaging earthquakes (M6.5+) have been confirmed in the immediate past 24 hours as of publication. Readers are encouraged to verify the latest USGS real-time feed for the most current data.

Volcanic Watch

Kīlauea (Hawai'i, USA) — ADVISORY / YELLOW The eruption at the summit of Kīlauea is currently paused, according to the latest USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) daily update issued May 11, 2026 at 19:05 UTC. The alert level remains ADVISORY with an Aviation Color Code of YELLOW. Critically, HVO forecasts the onset of Episode 47 fountaining between May 12–15, 2026 — meaning renewed lava fountaining could begin as early as today.

Kanlaon (Philippines) — Alert Level 2, possible escalation to 3 PHIVOLCS warned on May 11, 2026, that Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island may be elevated to Alert Level 3 after "banaag" (crater glow) and increased magmatic activity were observed. An escalation to Level 3 would indicate a relatively high level of unrest and the potential for hazardous eruptions.

Stromboli (Italy) A midnight-to-morning lava flow was recorded at Stromboli in the most recent 24-hour reporting period, consistent with the volcano's near-continuous eruptive behavior.

Sakurajima / Aira Caldera (Japan) Sakurajima continues to exhibit ground swelling, raising the possibility of a significant explosion in the near term, according to the latest volcano news update. Eruptive activity at the Aira caldera system had already increased as of early May.

Earth Science

2026 Seismic Overview With nearly 3,000 M4+ events recorded globally through mid-May 2026 — including 32 significant M6+ earthquakes — 2026 is tracking as an active seismic year. The maximum magnitude so far stands at 7.5. Scientists and emergency managers continue to monitor clusters and aftershock sequences worldwide.

Preparation Tip — Volcano Watch Zones If you live near an active or restless volcano like Kanlaon or Kīlauea, now is the time to review your evacuation plan. PHIVOLCS and USGS HVO both provide real-time alert updates; sign up for notifications through official agency channels and keep go-bags ready. A Level 3 alert at Kanlaon would trigger a 6-km permanent danger zone — residents in that radius should be prepared to evacuate on short notice.