30 Oct 2023 | 11:08 AM UTC
Russia: Officials report increased activity at Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano as of Oct. 30
Increased volcanic activity reported at Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano in Kamchatka Kray, Russia, as of Oct. 30; evacuations ongoing.
Authorities have observed increased activity at the Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano, approximately 355 km (221 miles) north-northeast of Petropavlovsk, Kamchatka Kray, as of Oct. 30. Strombolian-type eruptions have been ongoing at the volcano since Oct. 11, including several explosive eruptions Oct. 27-30. Officials reported ash columns of up to around 10 km (6 miles) from the summit, as well as lava fountains up to 500 meters (1,640 feet) from the crater. Lava flows are running along the Apakhonchichsky and Kozyrevsky drainages on the southern slopes of the volcano; the flows have reached nearly 4 km (2.5 miles) from the crater. An orange (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation is in place.
Local authorities have begun evacuating villages surrounding the volcano and have placed Ust-Kamchatsky, Bystrinsky, and Milkovsky districts in Kamchatka Kray on high alert. Ashfall is possible in surrounding communities. The volcano will likely produce additional ash and gas emissions, tremors, and explosions in the coming days and weeks.
Further eruptive activity at the volcano could prompt transport disruptions in the surrounding area. Ashfall may reduce visibility and cause hazardous driving conditions and could pose an increased threat to air traffic; flight disruptions are possible at Elizovo Airport (PKC) in Petropavlovsk if a significant eruption occurs and winds direct ash clouds in the general direction of the airports. Lava flows could block highways and damage structures. Residents should avoid approaching the volcano.
Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near the volcano. Avoid areas within the exclusion zone around the crater. In the event of a large eruption, use face masks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation. Monitor local media for updates and confirm flights from PKC if volcanic activity intensifies.
Close all doors and windows and only go out if necessary when ashfall occurs. If ash has entered the building, masks or cotton bandages soaked in a soda solution should be worn. Do not use computers, radios, and other electronic equipment and cover them with plastic wraps or thick cloths. Remove ash from the roof, gutters, and other areas. Wear a mask and goggles when cleaning. Do not bring clothes contaminated with ash into the house.
