Volcanic ash from Sheveluch volcano observed at 11 600 m (38 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at an altitude of 11 600 m (38 000 feet) above sea level at 21:00 UTC on March 27, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Tokyo VAAC at 21:31 UTC on the same day.

According to the advisory, the ash was detected from the surface to FL380, or 11 600 m (38 000 feet), and was reported to be extending southwest. The ash cloud’s height was updated based on a ground report. Movement of the ash cloud was towards the southwest at 56 km/h (35 mph). Satellite imagery from Himawari-9 and information from KVERT contributed to this assessment. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report confirms continued eruptive activity at the active lava domes on the north crater floor of Young Sheveluch during March 11–18, 2026. Explosions during March 11–12 generated ash plumes that rose as high as 8 000 m (19 700 feet), and those on March 16 reached up to 11 000 m (36 100 feet), drifting extensive distances to the east and northeast. The Aviation Color Code during that interval was Orange.

Sheveluch is a large andesitic stratovolcano located in Kamchatka, Russia. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the region and is known for frequent explosive eruptions, producing ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava domes. Hazards include significant ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars. The nearest settlements at risk include the towns of Klyuchi and Ust-Kamchatsk, both located within 50 to 90 km (31 to 56 miles) of the volcano.