Continuous ash plume from Sheveluch volcano reaches 9 100 m (30 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 9 100 m (30 000 feet) above sea level at 11:50 UTC on April 7, 2026. The advisory was issued by Anchorage VAAC at 11:50 UTC.

According to the advisory, a continuously observed ash cloud reached an altitude of 9 100 m (30 000 feet) and was moving northeast at approximately 19 km/h (12 mph). The ash cloud location and extent were confirmed by Himawari and POES satellite data. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

The most recent Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report notes that Sheveluch experienced ongoing eruptions in late March 2026. Explosions on March 19–20 and 22 generated ash plumes as high as 11 600 m (38 100 feet) and drifting up to 2 410 km (1 500 miles), with persistent growth of a new lava dome and frequent thermal anomalies.

Sheveluch is a large stratovolcano located on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, one of the most active in the region. Main hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and dome collapses. Small communities such as Klyuchi are situated within 50 km (31 miles) of the volcano, and regional air traffic can be affected by high ash plumes.