Continuous ash emissions at Sheveluch volcano reach 8 800 m (29 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 8 800 m (29 000 feet) above sea level at 23:20 UTC on March 31, 2026. The advisory was issued by the Tokyo VAAC at 00:00 UTC on April 1, 2026.

According to satellite data (Himawari-9, KVERT, KBGS), a volcanic ash cloud was continuously observed at altitudes up to FL290, which converts to 8 800 m (29 000 feet). The ash cloud was moving east at a speed of 28 km/h (17 mph). No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for March 12–18, 2026, notes that eruptive activity at the active lava domes of Young Sheveluch continued, with explosions generating ash plumes up to 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level and drifting over 1 800 km (1 100 miles) east. The Aviation Color Code was Orange during that period.

Sheveluch is an active stratovolcano located in Kamchatka, Russia. It presents substantial hazards including ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava dome collapse. The nearest settlement at risk is Klyuchi, about 50 km (31 miles) south-southwest of the volcano.