Kamchatka, Russia: In a significant geological event, the Krasheninnikov Volcano in Russia’s Far East has erupted for the first time in an estimated 600 years, with scientists suggesting a potential link to the powerful earthquake that struck the region last week. The overnight eruption, which sent an ash plume 6,000 meters into the air, has prompted an orange aviation code, signaling a heightened risk to air travel.
According to Olga Girina, head of the Kamchatka Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT), this is the “first historically confirmed eruption of Krasheninnikov Volcano in 600 years.” The last known lava effusion from the volcano occurred around 1463, a date supported by data from the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.
Girina noted that the eruption may be a consequence of the major earthquake that rattled Russia’s Far East on Wednesday. That seismic event, which triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific, was also followed by an eruption of Klyuchevskoy, the most active volcano in the region. The proximity and timing of these events have led scientists to explore a possible connection between the tectonic activity and the recent volcanic eruptions.
The Kamchatka branch of Russia’s ministry for emergency services confirmed the ash plume’s height, stating that it rose to 6,000 meters from the volcano, which stands at 1,856 meters. Officials have reassured the public that the ash cloud has drifted eastward over the Pacific Ocean, away from any populated areas.
The orange aviation code assigned to the eruption is a standard precautionary measure to alert pilots of the potential dangers of volcanic ash, which can damage aircraft engines.