Google Search Ranking Volatility Continues: What’s Happening Over the Past Two Weeks

The past two weeks have seen significant and ongoing fluctuations in Google search rankings, with daily instability. My last update, which covered ranking changes up to July 23rd, followed a pattern of volatility also seen on July 18th and July 9th. Since July 17th, the level of ranking instability has intensified.

Recurring Volatility Leading Up to July

Before this period of intense fluctuations, weekend ranking shifts had been observed for several months. While many in the SEO community are anticipating Google’s next core update to roll out soon, the current ranking volatility shows no sign of letting up.

This situation has sparked a surge in conversations, with over 600 comments on my most recent post, and ranking volatility tracking tools have been buzzing with activity.

Google Ranking Tools Show Ongoing Instability

Here’s a snapshot of what third-party tools tracking Google search results are showing over the past two weeks compared to previous data:

• Advanced Web Rankings
• Cognitive SEO
• Semrush
• Algoroo
• SERPmetrics
• Mozcast
• SERPstat
• Accuranker
• Mangools
• Wincher
• SimilarWeb

While I won’t dive into the specific comments from readers, the overall sentiment remains consistent: the past few weeks have been exceptionally volatile for Google search rankings.

Could a Core Update Be Coming?

Is this ongoing volatility a sign that Google is preparing to launch the next core update? Many in the industry hope that’s not the case, but it’s a possibility that can’t be ruled out.

For more detailed discussions and updates, you can join the conversation on WebmasterWorld.

Update: As of July 31st, the ranking fluctuations continue, with no signs of stabilizing just yet.