One of the largest volcanoes in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula erupts
Shiveluch, one of the most active volcanoes on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, erupted on Thursday evening, sending ash clouds up to 15 kilometers into the sky and blanketing large areas with dust.
The ash cloud stretched over 250 kilometers eastward, covering several villages in grey volcanic dust, according to officials.
Meanwhile, the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology issued the highest alert level for aviation, according to Russian news agencies. Local authorities advised residents to stay indoors and temporarily closed schools in several affected communities.
Shiveluch comprises two parts: the 3,283-meter Old Shiveluch and the smaller, highly active Young Shiveluch.
The Kamchatka Peninsula, extending into the Pacific Ocean about 6,600 kilometers east of Moscow, is one of the world’s most concentrated areas of geothermal activity, boasting around 30 active volcanoes.
