Volcanic ash from Sheveluch volcano observed at 9 800 m (32 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 9 800 m (32 000 feet) above sea level at 08:20 UTC on March 29, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Tokyo VAAC at 09:00 UTC.

According to the advisory, ash emissions continued and were confirmed by Himawari-9 satellite data. The ash cloud was observed from the surface up to 9 800 m (32 000 feet), moving east at approximately 65 km/h (40 mph). No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian’s Global Volcanism Program reported continuous eruptive activity at Sheveluch during March 11–18, 2026. Ash plumes rose up to 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level, drifting several hundred kilometers east and northeast. Daily thermal anomalies were identified in satellite data. The Aviation Color Code remained at Orange.

Sheveluch is a large, active stratovolcano in Kamchatka, Russia, featuring lava domes and prone to explosive eruptions. Hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava domes collapse. The closest population center is the town of Klyuchi, located about 50 km (31 miles) south-southwest, with other settlements scattered along the Kamchatka Peninsula at similar or greater distances.