Continuous volcanic ash emissions at Sheveluch volcano reach 6 700 m (22 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level at 19:20 UTC on March 29, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Tokyo VAAC at 20:00 UTC on March 29, 2026.

The ash cloud was continuously observed in Himawari-9 satellite imagery at surface to FL230, which corresponds to 6 700 m (22 000 feet). The ash cloud was reported moving east at 65 km/h (40 mph). Forecasts indicated that ash could remain at similar altitudes over the next 12 hours. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

According to the Smithsonian/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for March 11–18, 2026, Sheveluch exhibited ongoing eruptive activity with explosions generating ash plumes up to 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level. Significant ash drifted hundreds to thousands of kilometers east and northeast from the volcano.

Sheveluch is a large stratovolcano located in Kamchatka, Russia. Known hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars. The nearest population centers are the towns of Klyuchi and Ust-Kamchatsk, situated within 50 km (31 miles) to 90 km (56 miles) of the volcano. The region is sparsely populated but ash emissions can disrupt aviation and local settlements.