One of Russia’s most active volcanoes, Shiveluch, erupted on the Kamchatka Peninsula, spewing ash 5km into the sky following a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake. The eruption prompted a “code red” warning for aircraft in the area. The Ebeko volcano on the Kuril Islands also erupted, releasing ash 2.5km high. The possibility of a larger earthquake, potentially reaching magnitude 9.0, within 24 hours was also warned by the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Despite the seismic activity, there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.
The ash cloud extended over 490km east and southeast of Shiveluch, affecting the airspace in the region. However, commercial flights were not disrupted, and there was no reported damage to aviation infrastructure. Residents in the nearby city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky reported feeling strong tremors, with some calling it the strongest shaking they have experienced in a while.
The last major earthquake in Kamchatka occurred in November 1952, with a magnitude 9.0 quake causing significant damage but no reported deaths. The recent activity has put the region on alert and raised concerns about the potential for further seismic events. Scientists are monitoring the situation closely and providing updates as necessary to ensure the safety of residents and travelers in the area.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com