Continuous ash emissions at Sheveluch volcano reach 7 000 m (23 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch volcano in Russia was observed at 7 000 m (23 000 feet) above sea level at 17:20 UTC on March 29, 2026. The ash cloud was identified through satellite imagery. The advisory was issued by the Tokyo VAAC at 18:00 UTC on March 29, 2026.

The ash cloud was continuously detected by the Himawari-9 satellite at an altitude up to 7 000 m (23 000 feet), moving east at 46 km/h (29 mph). The previous advisory indicated volcanic ash at 4 600 m (15 000 feet), but this lower-level ash was no longer detectable due to meteorological clouds or dissipation. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

According to the most recent Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report, Sheveluch continued ongoing eruptive activity from the northern crater floor of Young Sheveluch during March 11-18, 2026. Explosions generated ash plumes that rose as high as 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level and drifted significant distances east and northeast. Daily thermal anomalies were observed in satellite images, and the Aviation Color Code was at Orange during the reporting period.

Sheveluch is a large stratovolcano located in the northern part of Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the region, with hazards including ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava dome collapses. The nearest significant population center is Klyuchi, located about 50 km (31 miles) to the south-southwest.