Volcanic ash from Sheveluch volcano observed at 7 900 m (26 000 feet) a.s.l., Russia

Volcanic ash from Sheveluch in Russia was observed at 7 900 m (26 000 feet) above sea level at 13:30 UTC on April 8, 2026. The advisory was issued by Tokyo VAAC at 13:51 UTC on the same day.

The observed ash cloud reached between the surface and FL260, which equates to 7 900 m (26 000 feet). Ash was observed extending north, moving at 74 km/h (46 mph). Some portions of the ash cloud were obscured by meteorological clouds, as noted in the remarks. Satellite confirmation was provided by Himawari-9. No Aviation Color Code was stated in this advisory.

According to the Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for March 19–25, 2026, Sheveluch exhibited continued activity with eruptions from lava domes on the north crater floor of Young Sheveluch. Explosions on March 19–20 and 22 produced ash plumes rising 9 500–11 600 m (31 200–38 100 feet) and drifting east, northeast, and northwest; satellite data confirmed thermal anomalies on most days.

Sheveluch is one of the largest and most active stratovolcanoes in Kamchatka, Russia. Hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava domes that may collapse, generating large ash columns and hot avalanches. The nearest settlements at risk include Klyuchi, located about 50 km (31 miles) south-southwest of the volcano.