Volcano Journal Entry
Chikurachki Erupts in Russian Far East (February 14, 2002)
View of Chikurachki volcano courtesy Geomar.
The Chikurachki volcano in the Russian Far East erupted this week. The volcano, found on the island of Paramushir north of Japan, billowed with thick clouds of ash and smoke. According to the Russian Earth Physics Institute, the eruption is likely to last for several days but no major explosions or earthquakes are expected.
The volcano is one of the most active in the Kuril Islands volcanic chain. Its last major eruption was in 1986.
The biggest town on the thinly-populated island is about 50 miles (80 km) away and is not threatened by the new activity. Still, volcanologists keep a watchful eye on the volcano. It lies below many popular air traffic routes and ash from its eruptions is a hazard to planes.
