Kamchatka Volcano Erupts First Time in 600 Years After 8.8 Earthquake

The Krasheninnikov volcano on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula erupted for the first time in approximately 600 years, an event scientists believe was triggered by a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake last week. The eruption sent an ash plume soaring up to 6,000 meters into the atmosphere, prompting an orange aviation warning due to the risk posed to aircraft. Olga Girina, head of the Kamchatka Volcanic Eruption Response Team, confirmed this as the first historically recorded eruption since around 1463. The ash cloud drifted eastward over unpopulated areas toward the Pacific Ocean, presenting no immediate threat to human settlements. This volcanic activity is part of a broader increase in seismic events in the region, with multiple tremors recorded and other volcanoes also showing heightened activity. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging caution and maintaining alerts for potential further volcanic and seismic developments.