One of Russia's most active volcanoes, Shiveluch, erupted on the far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula, spewing ash five kilometers into the sky. This eruption was preceded by a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Kamchatka, leading to concerns of a potential stronger earthquake in the region.
The eruption of Shiveluch and the Ebeko volcano on the Kuril Islands resulted in a "code red" warning for aircraft in the area, although no commercial flights were disrupted. Russian scientists from the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology warned of the possibility of another earthquake within 24 hours, with a magnitude possibly approaching 9.0.
Despite the significant seismic activity, there were no immediate reports of injuries from the earthquake. Residents of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a nearby port city, reported feeling strong shaking from the earthquake.
The history of earthquakes in Kamchatka was also referenced, with a magnitude 9.0 quake in 1952 causing damage but no reported deaths in the region. This historical context adds to the concerns surrounding the recent seismic activity in the area.
Overall, the eruption of Shiveluch, the earthquake off the coast of Kamchatka, and the subsequent warning for potential further seismic activity highlight the volatile nature of the region. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of residents and aircraft in the area.