Ash plume from Sheveluch volcano reaches 10 100 m (33 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 10 100 m (33 000 feet) above sea level at 17:20 UTC on March 27, 2026. The advisory was issued by Tokyo VAAC at 17:44 UTC on the same date.

Satellite observations from Himawari-9 confirmed the presence of an ash cloud extending from the surface up to 10 100 m (33 000 feet), moving southwest at approximately 65 km/h (40 mph). No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory. The forecast indicates the ash cloud may continue to extend and migrate to the southwest and other directions at similar altitudes over the next 18 hours.

According to the most recent Smithsonian/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, Sheveluch exhibited ongoing eruptive activity during 11-18 March 2026. Ash plumes from explosions rose up to 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level and traveled distances exceeding 1 800 km (1 100 miles) eastward. The Aviation Color Code was at Orange and frequent thermal anomalies were detected by satellite.

Sheveluch is a large stratovolcano located on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. Known hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and extensive lava domes and debris avalanches. The nearest settlements are Klyuchi, about 50 km (31 miles) southwest, and the region is sparsely populated, though air traffic in the area may be affected by ash clouds.