Continuous ash emissions at Sheveluch volcano reach 11 600 m (38 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 11 600 m (38 000 feet) above sea level at 23:20 UTC on March 27, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Tokyo VAAC at 00:00 UTC on March 28, 2026.

The ash cloud was continuously observed in satellite imagery (Himawari-9) at altitudes up to 11 600 m (38 000 feet). The ash was moving south at approximately 46 km/h (29 mph). Forecasts indicate the ash cloud may persist at this altitude for at least 18 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

According to a Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for March 11–18, 2026, Sheveluch experienced ongoing eruptive activity at its active lava domes. Explosions on March 11–12 and March 16 generated ash plumes rising as high as 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level, drifting more than 1 800 km (1 120 miles) east and northeast. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange during this period.

Sheveluch is one of Kamchatka’s largest and most active stratovolcanoes. It poses hazards such as ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava dome collapses. The closest settlements at risk include Klyuchi and other smaller communities within 50 km (31 miles) of the volcano.