Earthquake & Volcano Monitor — 2026-09-11

Seismic Activity

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, a series of seismic movements affected multiple regions across Mexico. The most significant event was a magnitude 3.6 tremor near Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, as recorded by the Servicio Sismológico Nacional (SSN). While minor, these events highlight the ongoing tectonic stress in the region.

In United States waters, a magnitude 5.3 earthquake occurred off the coast of Oregon on September 7, 2026. Classified as a moderate earthquake, it was widely felt and capable of causing light damage to vulnerable buildings near the epicenter. This event serves as a reminder of the active subduction zone along the Pacific Northwest coast.

Volcanic Watch

Kīlauea (Hawaii, USA) Kīlauea volcano is currently erupting, with intermittent short, precursory lava flows continuing the activity that began on September 7. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) has raised the Volcano Alert Level to WATCH and the Aviation Color Code to ORANGE. The forecast window for the onset of a full eruptive episode remains open, with monitoring focused on summit and East Rift Zone activity.

Great Sitkin (Alaska, USA) Great Sitkin volcano remains at an Alert Level of WATCH with an Aviation Color Code of ORANGE. As of the latest update from September 6, slow eruption of lava within the summit crater continues. While no new explosive activity has been reported in the last 24 hours, the persistent lava dome growth requires continued vigilance for aviation and local communities.

Global Overview The Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program reports that approximately 40 volcanoes worldwide have continuing eruptions. Recent global activity includes ongoing unrest at Etna, Fuego, Krakatau, Semeru, Ibu, Dukono, and Reventador, indicating a high level of global volcanic unrest.

Earth Science

Recent data analysis suggests that while 2026 feels exceptionally volatile due to high-profile disasters, statistical data from the USGS and Smithsonian indicates that the number of large earthquakes and erupting volcanoes is within historical norms. The perception of increased activity is often driven by improved detection capabilities and media coverage of significant events rather than a fundamental shift in geophysical behavior.