The explosive activity of Chikurachki volcano in January–October 2022 (Paramushir Island, Northern Kuriles)

Abstract

Chikurachki volcano located in the southern part of Paramushir Island (Northern Kuriles) was in a state of increased activity from January to October 2022. According to satellite data and the results of visual observations, at least 5 episodes of explosive activity, lasting from 2 to 8 days: January 30 – February 03, June 23–24, June 30 – 01 July, August 21 – September 02, October 13–20 were recorded. All observed events were similar to previous volcanic eruptions in their nature and duration, among which weak and moderate vulcanian eruptions prevailed: both single emissions and series of explosions to a height of 2–5 km a.s.l., as well as periods of relatively calm ash and gas mixture emission of various intensity were observed. Ash plumes and clouds spread mainly in the east, south, southeast, northeast and southwest directions, their length reached 790 km, and the area was 25 408 km2 (15 October, 2022).