The Ebeko volcano, situated on the Kuril Islands, experienced a significant eruption, propelling ash 2.8 kilometers into the atmosphere. The explosion, occurring at 11:54 KST (March 23, 23:54 UTC), resulted in an ash plume extending approximately 5 kilometers eastward. Aviation authorities have issued an orange alert, signifying potential hazards to local flights.
The eruption, originating from the North Kuril island of Paramushir, produced a towering column of ash reaching 2 kilometers above sea level on Friday morning. The ash plume extended southeastward for over 5 kilometers, as reported by officials.
Despite the eruption, there have been no reports of ashfall in Severo-Kurilsk, the sole settlement in the Northern Kuril Islands. Officials reassured the public, stating that there is no detectable presence of hydrogen sulfide odor and no imminent threat to the safety of residents. In response to the eruption, authorities have activated an orange aviation hazard color code for Ebeko, indicating the potential risk posed to low-flying aircraft by the volcanic ash.
