Logo link to homepage

Atka Volcanic Complex

Photo of this volcano
  • Country
  • Primary Volcano Type
  • Last Known Eruption
  •  
  • 52.331°N
  • 174.139°W

  • 1518 m
    4980 ft

  • 311160
  • Latitude
  • Longitude

  • Summit
    Elevation

  • Volcano
    Number
Most Recent Weekly Report: 1 March-7 March 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

On 2 March AVO changed both the Aviation Color Code and Volcano Alert Level for the Atka Volcanic Complex to Unassigned, due to a data outage. The loss of data flow from seismic stations made AVO unable to assess whether the volcano is at its normal background state.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


Most Recent Bulletin Report: November 2014 (BGVN 39:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Summary of activity during 1998-2007

Korovin is a stratovolcano located on Atka Island in the central Aleutian Islands; its most recent reported activity ended in 2007. This report summarizes and contains new information on activity from 1998 to 2007 by drawing on information primarily from the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) and their cited publications. Much of the summary takes the form of a table at the end of the report.

Atka volcanic complex. According to Myers and others (2002) Korovin is a part of the 360 km2 Atka volcanic complex, found on the northern part of Atka Island. It is the largest modern complex within the central Aleutians (Myers and others, 2002). The ancestral Atka volcano, in the complex, was described as a large shield volcano consisting of basaltic and basaltic andesite flows, which was subsequently surrounded by a series of satellite vents (Myers and others, 2002).

A caldera forming eruption at the Atka shield volcano occurred ~300,000-500,000 years ago, creating a 5-km-diameter caldera. Associated with that event was the eruption of a large dacitic flow, called Big Pink. Regarding the composition of Big Pink, Myers and others (2002) said, "It consists of pumiceous and glassy units but is not associated with any ash flows." After the caldera formation, the volcanic centers of Korovin, Kliuchef, Konia and Sarichef formed. Figure 4 is a topographic map showing the location of these four volcanic centers and the location of the Atka caldera. These structures all comprise the Atka volcanic complex.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 4. Topographical map of the northern part of Atka Island, located in the central Aleutian Islands. The map highlights the locations of the Atka caldera, the Korovin, Kliuchef and Sarichef volcanoes and the Konia vent, which all comprise the Atka volcanic complex. Image created by the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) and U.S Geological Survey (USGS) using BigTopo 7 software and AllTopo 7. Image taken from the AVO website.

Korovin volcano. Korovin is located 21 km NE from the town of Atka (figure 4). It is the largest and tallest volcano of the post-caldera volcanic centers within the Atka volcanic complex. According to Myers and others (2002), Korovin shows little evidence of glaciation, unlike Kliuchef, located ~5 km S of Korovin. Regarding Korovin' edifice and age, Myers and others (2002) say "Its uneroded form suggests the volcano is mostly Holocene in age."

Korovin has a basal diameter of ~7 km and two summit vents located 0.6 km apart (Myers and others, 2002). The NW summit vent has a small crater and is the lower of the two vents. The SE summit has a 1 km wide crater, with steep walls and a depth of several hundred meters (Myers and others, 2002). The SE summit crater sometimes contains a crater lake and is considered Korovin's active crater. Figure 5 is an aerial photo of Korovin, highlighting its two summit vents.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 5. Photograph of Korovin volcano taken from an aircraft flying at 9.1 km altitude on 5 August 2007. The view is oblique and from the N (i.e. looking S). Steam is rising from the active crater (SE crater). The summit of Kliuchef volcano is partially visible at the top of the image; it sits ~5 km S of Korovin. Photograph taken by Burke Mees, Alaska Airlines. Photograph from McGimsey and others (2011).

During the summer of 2004, AVO installed a network of seismic stations throughout the northern part of Atka Island. Data from the network was accessible in March 2005; however, it wasn't until December 2005 that Korovin was considered seismically monitored. On 2 December 2005, Korovin was also officially assigned the Level of Concern Color Code Green after "a sufficient period of background seismicity had been recorded" (McGimsey and others, 2007). Before, AVO had listed Korovin as UA (unassigned) during periods when no significant activity was noted. AVO assigns volcanoes UA when there is no real-time seismic network in the area that can be used to define background levels of seismicity.

In addition to being seismically monitored, Korovin is also monitored through ground-based, aerial, and satellite imagery and photographs. Korovin and its plumes are often photographed by residents of Atka village (figures 6 and 7), which are then sent to the AVO. Figure 8 provides examples of photos of Korovin taken from satellites. Images from figures 6-8 furnish various kinds of evidence, from steaming (i.e. non-eruptive cases, figure 7), ash-bearing plumes (figure 6), and the result of ash-bearing eruptions (ash on the snow surface seen in satellite views, figure 8). Evidence of these kinds is summarized in next section.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 6. Photographs showing the progression of a steam plume that developed over Kovorin around 1900 on 23 February 2005. Plume was observed drifting to the E, and ash was seen falling out near the base of the plume. These photos were taken in Atka village and are courtesy of Louis and Kathleen Nevzoroff. Photos were taken from McGimsey and others (2008).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 7. Photograph of a steam column rising from Korovin on 27 July 2007. Steam was estimated to reach ~215-245 m above the crater. The photo was captured by Louis Nevzoroff from Atka village. Taken from McGimsey and others (2011).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. Two satellite photographs showing ash deposits on the upper E flank of Korovin in 2002 (top) and 2004 (bottom). The source of these ash deposits is thought to be intermittent, minor phreatic eruptions through the hot, roiling lake within the SE summit crater of Korovin (McGimsey and others, 2007). Top image was taken on 5 July 2002 and produced by the Image Analysis Laboratory, NASA Johnson Space Center. Bottom image was captured on 4 July 2004 and is an Ikonos near-infrared color composite, copyrighted by Space Imaging LLC. Both images originally published in McGimsey and others (2008).

Activity during 1998-2007. During this interval (table 1), activity ranged from eruptive cases to those that were considered non eruptive.

Activity was often reported to AVO by Atka village residents and pilots in the area. Korovin was also monitored through satellite imagery, when weather conditions were favorable. During this interval, the highest plumes were observed on 30 June 1998 and reached an altitude of ~9.1 km. As activity varied, the Aviation Color Code (ACC), the Volcanic Activity Alert Level (VAAL), and the Level of Concern Color Code (LCCC) were changed to reflect Korovin's activity status.

AVO presented general information on reported activity from 1998-2007 on their website. For each of the events within this interval, AVO cited information from several sources, some of which included the following: McGimsey and others (2003), which discussed activity in 1998; McGimsey and others (2008), which discussed 2005 activity; Neal and others (2009) that looked at 2006 activity; and McGimsey and others (2011) that detailed 2007 activity. AVO also referenced several past Bulletin reports, which highlighted Korovin activity (BGVN 23:06, and 31:02).

Our summary in table 1 summarizes the following: (1) the basic information on Korovin's activity from the AVO website and (2) additional information from some of AVO's cited references. Greater detail can be found on AVO's website and in their cited references.

Table 1. Condensed descriptions of key events during both eruptive and non-eruptive periods during 1987-2007. The data sources are stated in the table. The Remarks column generally contains the following: (1) "AVO:" This presents a very brief synopsis of the summary that AVO provides on each of their Korovin reported activity web pages (as accessed in May 2015). (2) Below that, we present a succinct timeline of Korovin activity created using on information found in some of AVO's cited references. The 2005 activity is in two sections to highlight different periods of activity during that year; 2006-2007 is considered one period of activity. Where AVO cited references are augmented by past Bulletin reports, the information has been [bracketed]. Times are all local, unless otherwise stated. The term 'resident(s)' refers to resident(s) of Atka village. Abbreviations used are as follows: Village Public Safety Officer, VPSO; above sea level, a.s.l., and Interferometric synthetic aperture radar, InSAR; Aviation Color Code, ACC; Volcanic Activity Alert Level, VAAL; Level of Concern Color Code, LCCC; unassigned activity (UA); and satellite-based Ozone Monitoring Instrument, OMI.

Date Remarks
1998

AVO: Eruption started, 30 June 1998 ±1 month. Eruption end, 30 June 1998 ± 7 days

McGimsey and others (2003):

Eruption start / stop dates: 30 June / 8 July

"…, the timing of this activity remains poorly constrained; intermittent ash may, in fact, have occurred weeks or prior to June 30."

10 May- Pilot observed ash on SE slope. Pilot had seen no ash the previous week and speculated the ash was deposited a few days prior to May 10

28 June-Individual reported a dark ash plume over Korovin

30 June-VPSO in Atka village reported two separate clouds, first at ~0730 and second at ~0830. Second cloud rose ~9.1 km and was tinted orange. VPSO said events "produced dustings of ash in Atka". AVO received 2 pilot reports: (1) at 1115, noted volcanic cloud reached ~4.9 km a.s.l., (2) at 1720, cloud to 9.1 km near Korovin

2 July- Resident reported a 'rusty' cloud, ~4.9 km a.s.l. moving SE

3 July- Pilot reported profuse steam from summit crater and ash on S, SE and E flanks. Thin trail of ash extended SW towards Atka village

8 July- AVO noted minor, weakly ash-bearing clouds over Korovin with satellite images

2002

AVO: Eruption started, July 2002 ±1 month. Considered a questionable eruption

McGimsey and others (2008):

5 July- Satellite photo of ash deposits on upper E flank of Korovin (figure 8, top). "Intermittent, minor phreatic eruptions through a hot, roiling lake in the south summit crater of Korovin [is] the probable source."

2004

AVO: Eruption started, June 2004 ±1 month. Considered a questionable eruption

McGimsey and others (2008):

4 July- Satellite photograph shows ash deposits on upper E flank of Korovin (figure 8, bottom). Same explanation as 5 July 2002

Neal and others (2009):

7 July- Korovin photographed with ash covering the snow on its E flank. According to the caption of the photograph, "The deposit may be the result of phreatic explosions or vigorous wind remobilization of ash from within the summit crater."

19 July- Aerial photograph of Korovin showing ash deposited around the crater vent. The caption for the photograph states, "At times, a shallow body of gray, turbid water partially fills the inner crater and, in 2004, was observed roiling. Phreatic explosions from this water-rich, high-temperature system may be responsible for the occasional localized ash-fall deposits seen on the upper flanks of Korovin."

2005

AVO: Eruption started, 23 February. Eruption end, 7 May ± 14 days. Considered a questionable eruption.

McGimsey and others (2008):

23 February- Clear day. Residents noted minor steaming around 1200. Around 1900, residents observed dark cloud rising several thousand feet and drifting E (figure 6). Ash seen falling out near base of plume. Minutes later, three or four smaller gray puffs seen. No other activity seen that night. In satellite imagery, small steam plume with minor ash noticed. Height of plume estimated at ~3 km.

24 February- LCCC was raised from UA (unassigned) to Yellow

4 March- LCCC reduced from Yellow to UA

19 March- Pilot report noted steam rising several thousand feet above Korovin

Early May- Observational data showed roiling lake in SE crater emptied. Visible glow.

2005

AVO: Seismicity without confirmed eruption, start / end: 13 September

McGimsey and others (2008):

13 September- Long sequence of strong seismicity. Sequence began with two small local events, then ~30 minutes of weak tremor, and then ~20 weak local events. Nothing unusual noted in satellite images from this time.

2006-2007

AVO: Non-eruptive activity started, 16 January 2006 and ended September 2007 ± 2 months.

Neal and others (2009):

16 January 2006- Background seismic activity increased

17-18, 21 Jan and 21-22 Feb- burst of tremor-like signals

22 February 2006- LCCC increased from Green to Yellow

Early March- Seismicity stabilized and then decreased

8 March- LCCC downgraded from Yellow to Green

July- Increased number of earthquakes in vicinity of Korovin

September and October- Increased tremor episodes

19 October- SE crater lake disappeared by this date and absent for rest of 2006. Lake present on 12 September (satellite data).

29 October- White vapor plumes rose several hundred meters above Korovin and coincided with ~5-min of strong tremor

5 November 2006- Strongest earthquake swarm recorded by seismic network

6 November- Yellow ACC and an Advisory VAAL declared

18 November- dark-gray ash on E flank of SE crater observed in ASTER satellite images. Ash was not present in image from 21 November. ASTER satellite imagery showed warm spots in Korovin crater

Late November 2006- Significant deformation in latter half of 2006. Circular pattern of uplift, as much as 5 cm noted through July and October InSAR data. November-December- Seismicity high; strong, short-lived signals. Low-frequency tremor bursts.

11, 21 and 24 December 2006- Residents photographed large, white-vapor plumes rising from Korovin. One resident noted that he saw ash falling below the plume he reported. Ash was not verified on the ground

End of 2006-No ash detected in atmosphere or on ground through satellite data. Rise in ground temperature also not detected

McGimsey and others (2011):

Beginning of 2007- ACC, Yellow, and VAAL, Advisory due to increased activity in 2006. High seismicity from 2006 continued into 2007. Inflation (uplift) in N part of Atka Island that began in June 2006 totaled 9-10 cm and began to taper off in 2007

11 January 2007- M3.5 earthquake considered large for volcano-generated seismicity.

23 January- Series of tremor bursts

24 January- Resident took pictures of steam column rising from SE crater and reported similar steam columns rose ~300 m every 15-80 minutes

14 February 2007- Pilot reported a steam plume extending 1.5-2.4 km over Korovin

3 March- Residents photograph ash deposit on W flank. Residents observed steam from SE summit vent. Flurry of low-frequency seismicity in morning

May, June & August- Episodes of tremor lasted several days

27 July 2007- Steam plumes observed by residents (figure 7)

5 August- OMI detected small SO2 cloud, 300 km N of Cleveland volcano. Based on wind dispersal models, cloud believed to be from Korovin. Aerial photo (figure 5) showed steam rising from SE crater

20 August- OMI detected small emission of SO2 from Korovin

7 September- ACC/VAAL downgraded to Green/Normal due to decreasing trends in seismicity and uplift

October-December 2007- uneventful

References. Alaska Volcano Observatory, the U.S. Geological Survey, BigTopo 7, and AllTopo 7, Topographic shaded relief image of the northern part of Atka Island (Image 2906), accessed on 14 April 2005, (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/images/image.php?id=2906).

McGimsey, R. G., Neal, C. A., and Girina, O., 2003, 1998 volcanic activity in Alaska and Kamchatka: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report OF 03-0423, 35 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2003/of03-423/).

McGimsey, R.G., Neal, C.A., Dixon, J.P., and Ushakov, S., 2008, 2005 Volcanic activity in Alaska, Kamchatka, and the Kurile Islands: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2007-5269, 94 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2007/5269/).

McGimsey, R.G., Neal, C.A., Dixon, J.P., Malik, N., and Chibisova, M., 2011, 2007 Volcanic activity in Alaska, Kamchatka, and the Kurile Islands: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2010-5242, 110 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2010/5242/).

Myers, J.D., Marsh, B. D., Frost, C. D. and Linton, J.A., 2002, Petrologic constraints on the spatial distribution of crustal magma chambers, Atka Volcanic Center, central Aleutian arc, Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology, vol. 143, issue 5, pp. 567-586, DOI 10.1007/s00410-002-0356-7 (URL: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00410-002-0356-7).

Neal, C.A., McGimsey, R.G., Dixon, J.P., Manevich, A., and Rybin, A., 2009, 2006 Volcanic activity in Alaska, Kamchatka, and the Kurile Islands: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2008-5214, 102 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2008/5214/).

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of a) U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/), b) Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and c) Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 794 University Ave., Suite 200, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA; Game McGimsey, AVO.

Weekly Reports - Index


2023: March
2021: August
2020: October | December
2006: February | March | November
2005: February | March


1 March-7 March 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

On 2 March AVO changed both the Aviation Color Code and Volcano Alert Level for the Atka Volcanic Complex to Unassigned, due to a data outage. The loss of data flow from seismic stations made AVO unable to assess whether the volcano is at its normal background state.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


25 August-31 August 2021 Citation IconCite this Report

AVO lowered the Aviation Color Code and Volcano Alert Level for the Atka Volcanic Complex to Green and Normal, respectively, on 27 August, noting that seismicity had returned to baseline levels over the previous week.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


18 August-24 August 2021 Citation IconCite this Report

AVO reported that small earthquakes and seismic tremors at Atka continued to be detected, though at near background levels during 18-24 August. The Aviation Color Code remained at Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level at Advisory.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


11 August-17 August 2021 Citation IconCite this Report

The number of small shallow earthquakes increased at Atka during 10-11 August, prompting AVO to raise the Aviation Color Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory. The earthquakes were located at a depth of 3-6 km and around 7 km SW of Korovin, though may be related to the several vents that are part of the Atka volcanic complex. Seismicity declined afterwards but remained above background levels through 16 August, and was near baseline levels by 17 August.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


2 December-8 December 2020 Citation IconCite this Report

Seismic activity at Korovin had decreased, and satellite images showed no signs of unrest over the previous several weeks. AVO lowered the Alert Level to Green and the Aviation Color Code to Normal on 3 December.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


28 October-3 November 2020 Citation IconCite this Report

On 28 October AVO raised the Aviation Color Code and Volcano Alert Level for Korovin to Yellow and Advisory, respectively, noting that activity was above background levels. Discrete earthquakes were detected over the previous two weeks and sulfur dioxide emissions were identified four times in satellite data on 15, 20, and 26 October. Low-level seismicity continued and no surficial activity was evident in cloudy or partly cloudy satellite images through 3 November.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


1 November-7 November 2006 Citation IconCite this Report

The number of daily earthquakes increased in July and remained elevated into November. Episodes of volcanic tremor that first occurred in September increased in number, strength, and duration in the past several weeks. On 28 October, residents of Atka observed steam emissions to many hundreds of meters above the summit. On 6 November, the AVO raised the Aviation Level of Concern Color Code to Yellow and the Volcanic Alert Level to Advisory due to the high seismicity and steam emissions.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


8 March-14 March 2006 Citation IconCite this Report

AVO decreased the Concern Color Code at Korovin from Yellow to Green (the lowest level) on 8 March. After raising the Concern Color Code on 22 February in response to increased seismicity, the rate of micro-earthquakes stabilized and then declined. During 1-8 March, seismicity was near background levels and no unusual activity was seen on satellite imagery or by observers.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


1 March-7 March 2006 Citation IconCite this Report

Seismicity at Korovin remained slightly above background levels during 24 February to 3 March. Clouds obscured satellite views of the volcano, and AVO received no reports of activity. There were no indications that an eruption was imminent. The volcano remained at Concern Color Code Yellow.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


22 February-28 February 2006 Citation IconCite this Report

AVO reported that the Concern Color Code at Korovin volcano was raised from Green to Yellow on 22 February due to an increase in seismicity at the volcano. Distinct seismic signals indicating unrest were recorded on 4 days between 17 and 22 January, with a sustained 11-minute-long seismic signal on 22 February. After 22 February, seismicity decreased and distinct seismic signals like those recorded earlier were not detected. Clouds obscured satellite views of the volcano after 22 February. A pilot report on the 22nd indicated that the summit area was obscured by clouds, and there were no signs of ashfall on the flanks and no steam plume above the volcano. No obvious signs of activity were seen on 23 February by observers in the village of Atka. AVO received no reports of volcanic activity and there were no indications that an eruption was imminent.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


2 March-8 March 2005 Citation IconCite this Report

AVO did not receive reports of activity at Korovin volcano after the original report of ash-and-steam emissions on 24 February. During 25 February to 4 March, cloud cover prohibited satellite views of the volcano and no unusual seismicity was registered. Korovin is not monitored by a standard AVO seismic network. Therefore, AVO did not assign a Concern Color Code to the volcano during the report period.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


23 February-1 March 2005 Citation IconCite this Report

On 24 February AVO raised the Concern Color Code at Korovin volcano from Green to Yellow after receiving a report that ash and steam were emitted from Korovin on 23 February around 1900. According to residents of Atka village near the volcano, the initial ash burst rose to a height of ~ 2.4 km a.s.l. and drifted E. It was followed by several smaller ash-and-steam bursts. No ashfall was reported in Atka village, nor were there reports of accompanying volcanic odors, earthquakes, or larger volcanic explosions. Satellite images of the volcano did not clearly show the presence of ash or any thermal anomalies. On the morning of 24 February the volcano was steaming. AVO warned that low-level steam-and-ash emissions may continue and could pose a hazard to people and low- to medium-flying aircraft in the vicinity of the volcano. They further warned that if the eruption continues and begins to intensify, light ash fall could occur on parts of Atka Island, including the village of Atka.

Source: US Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)


Bulletin Reports - Index

Reports are organized chronologically and indexed below by Month/Year (Publication Volume:Number), and include a one-line summary. Click on the index link or scroll down to read the reports.

05/1986 (SEAN 11:05) Steam emission follows magnitude 7.7 earthquake

03/1987 (SEAN 12:03) Ash eruption from Korovin summit and two nearby vents

11/1993 (BGVN 18:11) "Rumbling" and degassing accompanies M 5.1 earthquake

05/1995 (BGVN 20:05) Small plume-like cloud over Kliuchef and very strong sulfur smell

06/1996 (BGVN 21:06) Eruption of volcanic ash

06/1998 (BGVN 23:06) Low eruption plume seen in June, dusting of ash in Atka

02/2006 (BGVN 31:02) Small steam-and-ash eruption on 23 February 2005 at Korovin

11/2006 (BGVN 31:11) Minor plumes bearing steam and ash throughout November-December 2006

11/2014 (BGVN 39:11) Summary of activity during 1998-2007




Information is preliminary and subject to change. All times are local (unless otherwise noted)


May 1986 (SEAN 11:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Steam emission follows magnitude 7.7 earthquake

[On 6 May], James Dickson noted a 500-m vertical steam plume over the SE part of the summit [of Korovin]. On 23 May at about 1730, Aleutian Air pilot Thomas Madsen noted a 600-m steam plume containing traces of ash rising above the rim of a 240-m-deep crater in the SE part of the summit area. A shallow magnitude 7.7 earthquake centered roughly 100 km [SSW] of Korovin at [51.52°N, 174.78°W] occurred 7 May [at 2247 GMT].

John Reeder and Kirk Swanson climbed [Korovin] in July 1983, observing only minor steaming from deep within the crater, rising to only 60 m above its floor.

Information Contacts: J. Reeder, ADGGS; T. Miller and M.E. Yount, USGS Branch of Alaskan Geology, Anchorage.


March 1987 (SEAN 12:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Ash eruption from Korovin summit and two nearby vents

On 18 March at 1954 a NOAA 10 satellite image showed three distinct plumes, each 95 km long, drifting ENE. The estimated vent locations were: 52.38°N, 174.15°W (Korovin's summit); 52.31°N, 174.24°W; and 52.29°N, 174.21°W (5.5 km WSW and 6.5 km SW of Mt. Kliuchef, a cone on Korovin's S flank). More accurate locations will be determined by USGS Anchorage. Just before midnight on the same day US Navy pilot Jeffrey Sullivan observed a southward-drifting ash plume rising to at least 3,000 m altitude, lit by an orange "flame" from Korovin. Smaller orange flickering "flames" from two other vents at lower elevation were visible. Two of the vents were ~2 km apart and the third vent was ~10 km NE of the other two vents.

Earlier in the day (at 1300) Julie Dirks and other Atka residents noticed sulfur smells (~18 km from the volcano). Although the weather was clear Dirks did not notice any "unusual" eruptive activity. On 19 March a SIGMET notice was issued to warn pilots of volcanic ash 185 km on either side of a line from 52°N, 175°W to 54°N, 172°W. The warning remained in effect until 0930. Pilots reported that the ash cloud reached 3,600 m.

Information Contacts: J. Reeder, ADGGS; M. Matson, NOAA/NESDIS; T. Miller, USGS, Anchorage.


November 1993 (BGVN 18:11) Citation IconCite this Report

"Rumbling" and degassing accompanies M 5.1 earthquake

On 10 December AVO reported the following. "On 4 December, following a M 5.1 earthquake at 1836 beneath the . . . island of Atka, residents of Atka village reported "rumbling" from the cluster of volcanoes that forms the N part of the island. At the same time, residents observed increased steaming from a fumarolic area on the flank of Kliuchef volcano and noted a distinct sulphur smell. A check of satellite imagery did not confirm any change in the surface state of the volcanoes. Late this week, the weather had deteriorated and no visual observations of the volcanoes were possible. . . ."

Information Contacts: AVO.


May 1995 (BGVN 20:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Small plume-like cloud over Kliuchef and very strong sulfur smell

Observers in the village of Atka on Atka Island in the central Aleutians reported a very strong sulfur smell on 1 May, and to a lesser extent on 4 May when they observed a small plume-like cloud over Kliuchef. Fumarolic areas exist on or near both Korovin and Kliuchef volcanoes, N of the village. Korovin was active most recently in 1987, and Kliuchef has had Holocene activity. Satellite images did not reveal any plume-like clouds associated with the island, however, a "hot-spot" possibly of fumarolic areas, was observed. A similar sulfur smell was reported by residents in December 1993, at about the same time they felt rumbling from a M 5.1 earthquake (BGVN 18:11).

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of a) U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667 USA, b) Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and c) Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 794 University Ave., Suite 200, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA.


June 1996 (BGVN 21:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Eruption of volcanic ash

On 29 June, Japan Airlines reported volcanic ash erupting from Atka. In addition, GEOS-9 satellite images showed a possible small ash cloud in the immediate vicinity of Atka. In early May 1995 residents of Atka village observed a small plume-like cloud over Kliuchef and reported a strong sulfur smell (BGVN 20:05).

[The 1996 eruption described here was later discredited.]

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of a) U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA, b) Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and c) Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys; NOAA/NESDIS Synoptic Analysis Branch (SAB), Room 401, 5200 Auth Road, Camp Springs, MD 20746, USA.


June 1998 (BGVN 23:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Low eruption plume seen in June, dusting of ash in Atka

At about 1000 on 30 June, the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) received a report of an eruption at Korovin from an observer in the village of Atka, near the volcano. The crew of a Coast Guard C-130 airplane confirmed that a low-level eruption plume had risen to almost 5 km above sea level by 1030, and late in the afternoon a pilot reported the plume at 9 km. The low-level ash-and-steam plume was not visible on satellite imagery due to meteorological clouds. Local winds at the time were light and to the SSW. A dusting of ash was reported in Atka. Poor weather on 1 July prohibited both direct and satellite observations.

Korovin volcano is located on the north end of Atka Island in the central Aleutians (figure 1), 538 km W of Dutch Harbor. It is 21 km N of the village of Atka, which has a population of about 100. The last reported eruption was in March 1987. AVO does not maintain seismic monitoring equipment on Atka Island.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 1. Location of Korovin [Atka] volcano in the Aleutians. Map courtesy of AVO.

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of a) U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/), b) Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and c) Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 794 University Ave., Suite 200, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA.


February 2006 (BGVN 31:02) Citation IconCite this Report

Small steam-and-ash eruption on 23 February 2005 at Korovin

[What follows is a corrected report taking advantage of new information.]

2005 activity. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) received a report that a sudden minor steam-and-ash eruption occurred at Korovin around 1900 on 23 February [2005]. Korovin is an active volcano ... in the central Aleutian islands, ~ 184 km E of Adak island and ~ 600 km W of Unimak island, and 1,760 km SW of Anchorage. According to residents of Atka village near Korovin, the initial ash burst rose to an altitude of ~ 2.4 km and drifted E. It was followed by several smaller ash-and-steam bursts.

No ashfall was reported in Atka village, nor were there reports of accompanying volcanic odors, earthquakes, or larger volcanic explosions. Satellite images of the volcano did not clearly show the presence of ash or any thermal anomalies. But, on the morning of 24 February [2005] (the morning after the eruption) the volcano was still steaming with some vigor. During the period 25 February-4 March [2005], cloud cover prohibited satellite views of the volcano, and no unusual seismicity registered.

Although Korovin was not monitored by a standard AVO seismic network, Atka village hosts a seismic station operated by the Alaska Earthquake Information Center. [No activity was reported following the 23 February 2005 eruption until January 2006].

2006 activity. Distinct seismic signals indicating unrest were recorded on 17, 18, and 21 January 2006, and 21 and 22 February 2006. The latter day (22nd) brought an unusually sustained, 11-minute-long signal.

After 22 February 2006, seismicity decreased and distinct seismic signals like those recorded earlier were not detected. An 8 March report noted that Korovin's rate of occurrence of micro-earthquakes had stabilized and then declined, and "it has been close to background levels for the past week."

For some days after 22 February, clouds obscured satellite views of the volcano. However, on the 22nd an aviator reported that, although the summit area was obscured by clouds, no signs of ashfall on the flanks or any steam plume was seen. On 23 February, observers in the village of Atka noted the lack of obvious signs of activity. AVO received no short-term reports of precursory volcanism to indicate an imminent eruption.

Seismicity at Korovin remained slightly above background levels during 24 February to 3 March 2006. Clouds continued to mask satellite views of the volcano, and AVO received no further reports of activity.

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of the U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/), Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 794 University Ave., Suite 200, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA.


November 2006 (BGVN 31:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Minor plumes bearing steam and ash throughout November-December 2006

[What follows is a corrected report taking advantage of new information.]

2005 activity. Korovin... has been relatively quiet since 23 February [2005], when it emitted minor though abruptly discharged steam and ash (BGVN 31:02). At that time, an initial ash burst rose to an altitude of ~ 2.4 km and was followed by several smaller ash-and-steam bursts, but no ashfall was reported in Atka village (figure 2). There were no reports of accompanying volcanic odors, earthquakes, or larger volcanic explosions.

Early 2006 activity. Earlier this year, seismicity indicating unrest was noted in January and February (BGVN 31:02). From 24 February-3 March 2006, seismicity at Korovin was slightly above background levels. During that time frame, the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) raised the concern color code at Korovin from Green to Yellow. The concern color code was then but reduced it to Green on 8 March 2006 .

Figure (see Caption) Figure 2. Sketch map of the central Aleutian Islands including Atka Island and the city of Atka (population 27, according to 1999 US Census estimate). Courtesy of USGS/AVO.

Late 2006 activity. An increase in seismicity during July 2006 represented a transition from prior low activity, meanwhile volcanic activity remained mild during that time (figure 3).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 3. The Korovin cone (lower left) in the Atka volcanic center was puffing steam to ~ 300 m above the summit on 30 July 2006 when seen from an Alaska Airlines jet. The Kliuchef cone (upper right, with two snow-clad craters) is one of multiple satellite cones. Photo credit to Cyrus Read; image courtesy of AVO/USGS.

This report also covers further minor events during September through December. During September and October, episodes of volcanic tremor increased in number, strength, and duration. On 28 October, residents of Atka village observed and photographed steam emissions to several hundred meters above the volcano.

For the duration of November and December, seismic levels remained above background levels. In late November satellite information showed a light dusting of ash on the E flank of the main crater along with several plumes and/or their shadows visible along the N side of the crater. Satellite radar images indicated uplift of the volcano; the area of uplift was consistent with locations of earthquake activity and the effects were interpreted as the result of magma injection. Cloud cover permitted only erratic satellite observation during November and December. On 11 and 21 December 2006, Atka residents again witnessed steam plumes, on the latter date possibly containing ash.

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of the U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/), Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 794 University Ave., Suite 200, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA.


November 2014 (BGVN 39:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Summary of activity during 1998-2007

Korovin is a stratovolcano located on Atka Island in the central Aleutian Islands; its most recent reported activity ended in 2007. This report summarizes and contains new information on activity from 1998 to 2007 by drawing on information primarily from the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) and their cited publications. Much of the summary takes the form of a table at the end of the report.

Atka volcanic complex. According to Myers and others (2002) Korovin is a part of the 360 km2 Atka volcanic complex, found on the northern part of Atka Island. It is the largest modern complex within the central Aleutians (Myers and others, 2002). The ancestral Atka volcano, in the complex, was described as a large shield volcano consisting of basaltic and basaltic andesite flows, which was subsequently surrounded by a series of satellite vents (Myers and others, 2002).

A caldera forming eruption at the Atka shield volcano occurred ~300,000-500,000 years ago, creating a 5-km-diameter caldera. Associated with that event was the eruption of a large dacitic flow, called Big Pink. Regarding the composition of Big Pink, Myers and others (2002) said, "It consists of pumiceous and glassy units but is not associated with any ash flows." After the caldera formation, the volcanic centers of Korovin, Kliuchef, Konia and Sarichef formed. Figure 4 is a topographic map showing the location of these four volcanic centers and the location of the Atka caldera. These structures all comprise the Atka volcanic complex.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 4. Topographical map of the northern part of Atka Island, located in the central Aleutian Islands. The map highlights the locations of the Atka caldera, the Korovin, Kliuchef and Sarichef volcanoes and the Konia vent, which all comprise the Atka volcanic complex. Image created by the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) and U.S Geological Survey (USGS) using BigTopo 7 software and AllTopo 7. Image taken from the AVO website.

Korovin volcano. Korovin is located 21 km NE from the town of Atka (figure 4). It is the largest and tallest volcano of the post-caldera volcanic centers within the Atka volcanic complex. According to Myers and others (2002), Korovin shows little evidence of glaciation, unlike Kliuchef, located ~5 km S of Korovin. Regarding Korovin' edifice and age, Myers and others (2002) say "Its uneroded form suggests the volcano is mostly Holocene in age."

Korovin has a basal diameter of ~7 km and two summit vents located 0.6 km apart (Myers and others, 2002). The NW summit vent has a small crater and is the lower of the two vents. The SE summit has a 1 km wide crater, with steep walls and a depth of several hundred meters (Myers and others, 2002). The SE summit crater sometimes contains a crater lake and is considered Korovin's active crater. Figure 5 is an aerial photo of Korovin, highlighting its two summit vents.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 5. Photograph of Korovin volcano taken from an aircraft flying at 9.1 km altitude on 5 August 2007. The view is oblique and from the N (i.e. looking S). Steam is rising from the active crater (SE crater). The summit of Kliuchef volcano is partially visible at the top of the image; it sits ~5 km S of Korovin. Photograph taken by Burke Mees, Alaska Airlines. Photograph from McGimsey and others (2011).

During the summer of 2004, AVO installed a network of seismic stations throughout the northern part of Atka Island. Data from the network was accessible in March 2005; however, it wasn't until December 2005 that Korovin was considered seismically monitored. On 2 December 2005, Korovin was also officially assigned the Level of Concern Color Code Green after "a sufficient period of background seismicity had been recorded" (McGimsey and others, 2007). Before, AVO had listed Korovin as UA (unassigned) during periods when no significant activity was noted. AVO assigns volcanoes UA when there is no real-time seismic network in the area that can be used to define background levels of seismicity.

In addition to being seismically monitored, Korovin is also monitored through ground-based, aerial, and satellite imagery and photographs. Korovin and its plumes are often photographed by residents of Atka village (figures 6 and 7), which are then sent to the AVO. Figure 8 provides examples of photos of Korovin taken from satellites. Images from figures 6-8 furnish various kinds of evidence, from steaming (i.e. non-eruptive cases, figure 7), ash-bearing plumes (figure 6), and the result of ash-bearing eruptions (ash on the snow surface seen in satellite views, figure 8). Evidence of these kinds is summarized in next section.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 6. Photographs showing the progression of a steam plume that developed over Kovorin around 1900 on 23 February 2005. Plume was observed drifting to the E, and ash was seen falling out near the base of the plume. These photos were taken in Atka village and are courtesy of Louis and Kathleen Nevzoroff. Photos were taken from McGimsey and others (2008).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 7. Photograph of a steam column rising from Korovin on 27 July 2007. Steam was estimated to reach ~215-245 m above the crater. The photo was captured by Louis Nevzoroff from Atka village. Taken from McGimsey and others (2011).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. Two satellite photographs showing ash deposits on the upper E flank of Korovin in 2002 (top) and 2004 (bottom). The source of these ash deposits is thought to be intermittent, minor phreatic eruptions through the hot, roiling lake within the SE summit crater of Korovin (McGimsey and others, 2007). Top image was taken on 5 July 2002 and produced by the Image Analysis Laboratory, NASA Johnson Space Center. Bottom image was captured on 4 July 2004 and is an Ikonos near-infrared color composite, copyrighted by Space Imaging LLC. Both images originally published in McGimsey and others (2008).

Activity during 1998-2007. During this interval (table 1), activity ranged from eruptive cases to those that were considered non eruptive.

Activity was often reported to AVO by Atka village residents and pilots in the area. Korovin was also monitored through satellite imagery, when weather conditions were favorable. During this interval, the highest plumes were observed on 30 June 1998 and reached an altitude of ~9.1 km. As activity varied, the Aviation Color Code (ACC), the Volcanic Activity Alert Level (VAAL), and the Level of Concern Color Code (LCCC) were changed to reflect Korovin's activity status.

AVO presented general information on reported activity from 1998-2007 on their website. For each of the events within this interval, AVO cited information from several sources, some of which included the following: McGimsey and others (2003), which discussed activity in 1998; McGimsey and others (2008), which discussed 2005 activity; Neal and others (2009) that looked at 2006 activity; and McGimsey and others (2011) that detailed 2007 activity. AVO also referenced several past Bulletin reports, which highlighted Korovin activity (BGVN 23:06, and 31:02).

Our summary in table 1 summarizes the following: (1) the basic information on Korovin's activity from the AVO website and (2) additional information from some of AVO's cited references. Greater detail can be found on AVO's website and in their cited references.

Table 1. Condensed descriptions of key events during both eruptive and non-eruptive periods during 1987-2007. The data sources are stated in the table. The Remarks column generally contains the following: (1) "AVO:" This presents a very brief synopsis of the summary that AVO provides on each of their Korovin reported activity web pages (as accessed in May 2015). (2) Below that, we present a succinct timeline of Korovin activity created using on information found in some of AVO's cited references. The 2005 activity is in two sections to highlight different periods of activity during that year; 2006-2007 is considered one period of activity. Where AVO cited references are augmented by past Bulletin reports, the information has been [bracketed]. Times are all local, unless otherwise stated. The term 'resident(s)' refers to resident(s) of Atka village. Abbreviations used are as follows: Village Public Safety Officer, VPSO; above sea level, a.s.l., and Interferometric synthetic aperture radar, InSAR; Aviation Color Code, ACC; Volcanic Activity Alert Level, VAAL; Level of Concern Color Code, LCCC; unassigned activity (UA); and satellite-based Ozone Monitoring Instrument, OMI.

Date Remarks
1998

AVO: Eruption started, 30 June 1998 ±1 month. Eruption end, 30 June 1998 ± 7 days

McGimsey and others (2003):

Eruption start / stop dates: 30 June / 8 July

"…, the timing of this activity remains poorly constrained; intermittent ash may, in fact, have occurred weeks or prior to June 30."

10 May- Pilot observed ash on SE slope. Pilot had seen no ash the previous week and speculated the ash was deposited a few days prior to May 10

28 June-Individual reported a dark ash plume over Korovin

30 June-VPSO in Atka village reported two separate clouds, first at ~0730 and second at ~0830. Second cloud rose ~9.1 km and was tinted orange. VPSO said events "produced dustings of ash in Atka". AVO received 2 pilot reports: (1) at 1115, noted volcanic cloud reached ~4.9 km a.s.l., (2) at 1720, cloud to 9.1 km near Korovin

2 July- Resident reported a 'rusty' cloud, ~4.9 km a.s.l. moving SE

3 July- Pilot reported profuse steam from summit crater and ash on S, SE and E flanks. Thin trail of ash extended SW towards Atka village

8 July- AVO noted minor, weakly ash-bearing clouds over Korovin with satellite images

2002

AVO: Eruption started, July 2002 ±1 month. Considered a questionable eruption

McGimsey and others (2008):

5 July- Satellite photo of ash deposits on upper E flank of Korovin (figure 8, top). "Intermittent, minor phreatic eruptions through a hot, roiling lake in the south summit crater of Korovin [is] the probable source."

2004

AVO: Eruption started, June 2004 ±1 month. Considered a questionable eruption

McGimsey and others (2008):

4 July- Satellite photograph shows ash deposits on upper E flank of Korovin (figure 8, bottom). Same explanation as 5 July 2002

Neal and others (2009):

7 July- Korovin photographed with ash covering the snow on its E flank. According to the caption of the photograph, "The deposit may be the result of phreatic explosions or vigorous wind remobilization of ash from within the summit crater."

19 July- Aerial photograph of Korovin showing ash deposited around the crater vent. The caption for the photograph states, "At times, a shallow body of gray, turbid water partially fills the inner crater and, in 2004, was observed roiling. Phreatic explosions from this water-rich, high-temperature system may be responsible for the occasional localized ash-fall deposits seen on the upper flanks of Korovin."

2005

AVO: Eruption started, 23 February. Eruption end, 7 May ± 14 days. Considered a questionable eruption.

McGimsey and others (2008):

23 February- Clear day. Residents noted minor steaming around 1200. Around 1900, residents observed dark cloud rising several thousand feet and drifting E (figure 6). Ash seen falling out near base of plume. Minutes later, three or four smaller gray puffs seen. No other activity seen that night. In satellite imagery, small steam plume with minor ash noticed. Height of plume estimated at ~3 km.

24 February- LCCC was raised from UA (unassigned) to Yellow

4 March- LCCC reduced from Yellow to UA

19 March- Pilot report noted steam rising several thousand feet above Korovin

Early May- Observational data showed roiling lake in SE crater emptied. Visible glow.

2005

AVO: Seismicity without confirmed eruption, start / end: 13 September

McGimsey and others (2008):

13 September- Long sequence of strong seismicity. Sequence began with two small local events, then ~30 minutes of weak tremor, and then ~20 weak local events. Nothing unusual noted in satellite images from this time.

2006-2007

AVO: Non-eruptive activity started, 16 January 2006 and ended September 2007 ± 2 months.

Neal and others (2009):

16 January 2006- Background seismic activity increased

17-18, 21 Jan and 21-22 Feb- burst of tremor-like signals

22 February 2006- LCCC increased from Green to Yellow

Early March- Seismicity stabilized and then decreased

8 March- LCCC downgraded from Yellow to Green

July- Increased number of earthquakes in vicinity of Korovin

September and October- Increased tremor episodes

19 October- SE crater lake disappeared by this date and absent for rest of 2006. Lake present on 12 September (satellite data).

29 October- White vapor plumes rose several hundred meters above Korovin and coincided with ~5-min of strong tremor

5 November 2006- Strongest earthquake swarm recorded by seismic network

6 November- Yellow ACC and an Advisory VAAL declared

18 November- dark-gray ash on E flank of SE crater observed in ASTER satellite images. Ash was not present in image from 21 November. ASTER satellite imagery showed warm spots in Korovin crater

Late November 2006- Significant deformation in latter half of 2006. Circular pattern of uplift, as much as 5 cm noted through July and October InSAR data. November-December- Seismicity high; strong, short-lived signals. Low-frequency tremor bursts.

11, 21 and 24 December 2006- Residents photographed large, white-vapor plumes rising from Korovin. One resident noted that he saw ash falling below the plume he reported. Ash was not verified on the ground

End of 2006-No ash detected in atmosphere or on ground through satellite data. Rise in ground temperature also not detected

McGimsey and others (2011):

Beginning of 2007- ACC, Yellow, and VAAL, Advisory due to increased activity in 2006. High seismicity from 2006 continued into 2007. Inflation (uplift) in N part of Atka Island that began in June 2006 totaled 9-10 cm and began to taper off in 2007

11 January 2007- M3.5 earthquake considered large for volcano-generated seismicity.

23 January- Series of tremor bursts

24 January- Resident took pictures of steam column rising from SE crater and reported similar steam columns rose ~300 m every 15-80 minutes

14 February 2007- Pilot reported a steam plume extending 1.5-2.4 km over Korovin

3 March- Residents photograph ash deposit on W flank. Residents observed steam from SE summit vent. Flurry of low-frequency seismicity in morning

May, June & August- Episodes of tremor lasted several days

27 July 2007- Steam plumes observed by residents (figure 7)

5 August- OMI detected small SO2 cloud, 300 km N of Cleveland volcano. Based on wind dispersal models, cloud believed to be from Korovin. Aerial photo (figure 5) showed steam rising from SE crater

20 August- OMI detected small emission of SO2 from Korovin

7 September- ACC/VAAL downgraded to Green/Normal due to decreasing trends in seismicity and uplift

October-December 2007- uneventful

References. Alaska Volcano Observatory, the U.S. Geological Survey, BigTopo 7, and AllTopo 7, Topographic shaded relief image of the northern part of Atka Island (Image 2906), accessed on 14 April 2005, (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/images/image.php?id=2906).

McGimsey, R. G., Neal, C. A., and Girina, O., 2003, 1998 volcanic activity in Alaska and Kamchatka: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report OF 03-0423, 35 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2003/of03-423/).

McGimsey, R.G., Neal, C.A., Dixon, J.P., and Ushakov, S., 2008, 2005 Volcanic activity in Alaska, Kamchatka, and the Kurile Islands: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2007-5269, 94 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2007/5269/).

McGimsey, R.G., Neal, C.A., Dixon, J.P., Malik, N., and Chibisova, M., 2011, 2007 Volcanic activity in Alaska, Kamchatka, and the Kurile Islands: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2010-5242, 110 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2010/5242/).

Myers, J.D., Marsh, B. D., Frost, C. D. and Linton, J.A., 2002, Petrologic constraints on the spatial distribution of crustal magma chambers, Atka Volcanic Center, central Aleutian arc, Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology, vol. 143, issue 5, pp. 567-586, DOI 10.1007/s00410-002-0356-7 (URL: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00410-002-0356-7).

Neal, C.A., McGimsey, R.G., Dixon, J.P., Manevich, A., and Rybin, A., 2009, 2006 Volcanic activity in Alaska, Kamchatka, and the Kurile Islands: Summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2008-5214, 102 pp, (URL: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2008/5214/).

Information Contacts: Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), a cooperative program of a) U.S. Geological Survey, 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA (URL: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/), b) Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska, PO Box 757320, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7320, USA, and c) Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, 794 University Ave., Suite 200, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA; Game McGimsey, AVO.

This compilation of synonyms and subsidiary features may not be comprehensive. Features are organized into four major categories: Cones, Craters, Domes, and Thermal Features. Synonyms of features appear indented below the primary name. In some cases additional feature type, elevation, or location details are provided.

Eruptive History

There is data available for 9 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

2006 Nov 25 ± 5 days - 2007 Mar 3 (in or before) Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
2006 Nov 25 ± 5 days - 2007 Mar 3 (in or before) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Ash weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
2006 Nov 25 ± 5 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2005 Feb 23 - 2005 May 5 ± 4 days Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
2005 Feb 23 - 2005 May 5 ± 4 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
2005 Feb 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2004 Jul 4 (in or before) Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 1 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
2004 Jul 4 (in or before) - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
2004 Jul 4
(in or before)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2002 Jul 16 (in or before) ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 1 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
2002 Jul 16 (in or before) ± 15 days - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
2002 Jul
(in or before)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1998 May 8 ± 1 days - 1998 Jul 8 (?) Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1998 May 8 ± 1 days - 1998 Jul 8 (?) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1998 May 8 ± 1 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1998 Jun 30    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1996 Jun 29 ] Discredited Eruption

On 29 June 1996, a Japan Air Lines pilot reported volcanic ash rising from Atka. Satellite images also showed what could be a small ash cloud near Atka. In early May, residents of Atka village had observed a small plume-like cloud over Kliuchef volcano and noticed a strong sulfur smell. AVO noted the lack of confirming observations of eruptions and concluded the cloud was meterologic in nature (McGimsey and Neal, 1997).

[ 1995 May 1 ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1995 May 1 - Unknown Evidence from Unknown

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity Uncertain
1995 May 1    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1987 Mar 4 (?) - 1987 Mar 19 (?) Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1987 Mar 4 (?) - 1987 Mar 19 (?) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Flames
1987 Mar 4
(?)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1986 May 23 ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1986 May 23 - Unknown Evidence from Unknown

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1986 May 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1976 Jul 2 ± 182 days ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1976 Jul 2 ± 182 days - Unknown Evidence from Unknown

List of 1 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Volcanic "smoke"

1973 Aug 25 ± 2 days Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 0

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1973 Aug 25 ± 2 days - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow weak or small
1973 Aug 25 ± 2 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1953 Jul 2 ± 182 days - 1954 Jul 2 ± 182 days ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1953 Jul 2 ± 182 days - 1954 Jul 2 ± 182 days Evidence from Unknown

List of 1 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Volcanic "smoke"

[ 1951 Jul 2 ± 182 days ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1951 Jul 2 ± 182 days - Unknown Evidence from Unknown

List of 1 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Volcanic "smoke"

1907 Confirmed Eruption  

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1907 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Scoria

[ 1844 ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1844 - Unknown Evidence from Unknown

List of 1 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Volcanic "smoke"

[ 1829 - 1830 ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode
1829 - 1830 Evidence from Unknown

List of 1 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Volcanic "smoke"

1812 Confirmed Eruption Max VEI: 3 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption Episode Sarichef or more probably Kliuchef
1812 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Sarichef or more probably Kliuchef

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1812    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
Deformation History

There is data available for 6 deformation periods. Expand each entry for additional details.


Deformation during 2006 Jun - 2006 Nov [Uplift; Observed by InSAR]

Start Date: 2006 Jun Stop Date: 2006 Nov Direction: Uplift Method: InSAR
Magnitude: 6.000 cm Spatial Extent: 17.00 km Latitude: 52.000 Longitude: -174.000

Remarks: Deformation associated with the 2006 earthquake swarm

Figure (see Caption)

a Observed b model, and c residual interferograms of the Atka volcanic center during October 17, 2005?October 2, 2006. The residual interferogram was produced by removing volcano-wide deformation based on the best-fit model in (b). One fringe (full color cycle) represents 2.8 cm of range change along the SAR look direction. Areas that lack interferometric coherence are uncolored

From: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.


Reference List: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.

Full References:

Lu Z, Dzurisin D, 2014. InSAR imaging of Aleutian volcanoes: monitoring a volcanic arc from space. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-00348-6

Deformation during 2004 - 2005 [Subsidence; Observed by InSAR]

Start Date: 2004 Stop Date: 2005 Direction: Subsidence Method: InSAR
Magnitude: Unknown Spatial Extent: 6.00 km Latitude: 52.000 Longitude: -174.000

Remarks: Subsidence due to depressurization in the magmatic and/or hydrothermal systems at 3-4 km depth below the surface.

Figure (see Caption)

InSAR deformation phase values are draped over a shaded relief map derived from SRTM DEM data. Each fringe (full color cycle) represents 2.8 cm of range change between the ground and the satellite. Areas that lack interferometric coherence are uncolored. Each InSAR image is annotated with image acquisition dates, SAR sensor (E for ERS-2, V for Envisat), and track number

From: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.


Reference List: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.

Full References:

Lu Z, Dzurisin D, 2014. InSAR imaging of Aleutian volcanoes: monitoring a volcanic arc from space. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-00348-6

Deformation during 2003 - 2004 [Uplift; Observed by InSAR]

Start Date: 2003 Stop Date: 2004 Direction: Uplift Method: InSAR
Magnitude: Unknown Spatial Extent: 12.00 km Latitude: 52.000 Longitude: -174.000

Remarks: Uplift due to magma intrusion at 5-8 km depth.

Figure (see Caption)

InSAR deformation phase values are draped over a shaded relief map derived from SRTM DEM data. Each fringe (full color cycle) represents 2.8 cm of range change between the ground and the satellite. Areas that lack interferometric coherence are uncolored. Each InSAR image is annotated with image acquisition dates, SAR sensor (E for ERS-2, V for Envisat), and track number

From: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.


Reference List: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.

Full References:

Lu Z, Dzurisin D, 2014. InSAR imaging of Aleutian volcanoes: monitoring a volcanic arc from space. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-00348-6

Deformation during 1999 - 2000 [Uplift; Observed by InSAR]

Start Date: 1999 Stop Date: 2000 Direction: Uplift Method: InSAR
Magnitude: Unknown Spatial Extent: 12.00 km Latitude: 52.000 Longitude: -174.000

Remarks: Uplift due to magma intrusion at 5-8 km depth.

Figure (see Caption)

InSAR deformation phase values are draped over a shaded relief map derived from SRTM DEM data. Each fringe (full color cycle) represents 2.8 cm of range change between the ground and the satellite. Areas that lack interferometric coherence are uncolored. Each InSAR image is annotated with image acquisition dates, SAR sensor (E for ERS-2, V for Envisat), and track number

From: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.


Reference List: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.

Full References:

Lu Z, Dzurisin D, 2014. InSAR imaging of Aleutian volcanoes: monitoring a volcanic arc from space. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-00348-6

Deformation during 1998 - 1999 [Subsidence; Observed by InSAR]

Start Date: 1998 Stop Date: 1999 Direction: Subsidence Method: InSAR
Magnitude: Unknown Spatial Extent: 6.00 km Latitude: 52.000 Longitude: -174.000

Remarks: Subsidence due to depressurization in the magmatic and/or hydrothermal systems at 3-4 km depth below the surface.

Figure (see Caption)

InSAR deformation phase values are draped over a shaded relief map derived from SRTM DEM data. Each fringe (full color cycle) represents 2.8 cm of range change between the ground and the satellite. Areas that lack interferometric coherence are uncolored. Each InSAR image is annotated with image acquisition dates, SAR sensor (E for ERS-2, V for Envisat), and track number

From: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.


Reference List: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.

Full References:

Lu Z, Dzurisin D, 2014. InSAR imaging of Aleutian volcanoes: monitoring a volcanic arc from space. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-00348-6

Deformation during 1997 - 1998 [Subsidence; Observed by InSAR]

Start Date: 1997 Stop Date: 1998 Direction: Subsidence Method: InSAR
Magnitude: Unknown Spatial Extent: 6.00 km Latitude: 52.000 Longitude: -174.000

Remarks: Subsidence due to depressurization in the magmatic and/or hydrothermal systems at 3-4 km depth below the surface.

Figure (see Caption)

InSAR deformation phase values are draped over a shaded relief map derived from SRTM DEM data. Each fringe (full color cycle) represents 2.8 cm of range change between the ground and the satellite. Areas that lack interferometric coherence are uncolored. Each InSAR image is annotated with image acquisition dates, SAR sensor (E for ERS-2, V for Envisat), and track number

From: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.


Reference List: Lu and Dzurisin 2014.

Full References:

Lu Z, Dzurisin D, 2014. InSAR imaging of Aleutian volcanoes: monitoring a volcanic arc from space. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-00348-6

Emission History

There is no Emissions History data available for Atka Volcanic Complex.

Photo Gallery

The Atka volcanic complex at the NE tip of Atka Island is one of the largest volcanic centers in the central Aleutians. It contains a caldera and is surrounded by 7 or 8 smaller cones. This view from the south near Atka village shows Korovin, the highest and northernmost of three Holocene cones of the Atka complex.

Photo by James Dickson, 1986 (courtesy of John Reeder, Alaska Div. Geology Geophysical Surveys).
This view from the NE in June 1986 shows steam rising from the summit crater of Korovin, north of Atka. It has been reported to have a cylindrical vent of greatly variable depth depending on the presence of a lake.

Photo by Harold Wilson (Peninsula Airways), 1986 (courtesy of John Reeder, Alaska Div. Geology & Geophysical Surveys).
A gas-and-steam plume, possibly containing minor amounts of ash, rises above the summit of Korovin volcano on 4 March 1987. This view of Korovin, north of Atka, was taken from the south. A satellite image on 18 March showed three distinct plumes originating from Korovin and two vents to the south.

Photo by Harold Wilson (Peninsula Airways), 1987 (courtesy of John Reeder, Alaska Div. Geology Geophysical Surveys).
Korovin is seen here from the S, with the smaller Konia cone on its SE flank. Korovin is one of the most frequently active centers of the large complex at the NE tip of Atka Island, and contains two craters near the summit. The SE cone has a 1-km-wide crater, larger than the NW summit.

Photo by Jim Myers, 1997 (University of Wyoming; courtesy of Alaska Volcano Observatory).
An aerial view from the WNW shows a young vent on the NE side of Kluichef, which was constructed within the Pleistocene Atka caldera.

Photo by Game McGimsey, 2004 (Alaska Volcano Observatory, U.S. Geological Survey).
A satellite image on 4 July 2004 showed fresh ash deposits on the upper E flank of Korovin. This photo, taken from the SE, show ash emplaced on the upper slopes of the SE crater.

Photo by Game McGimsey, 2004 (Alaska Volcano Observatory, U.S. Geological Survey).
This photo taken on 3 March 2007 shows a light-gray ash deposit on the W flank of Korovin. In late November 2006 satellite images showed a light dusting of ash on the E flank of the main crater along with several plumes and/or their shadows visible along the N side of the crater. On 11 and 21 December 2006 Atka residents again witnessed steam plumes, possibly containing ash on the latter date.

Photo by Kerry Moore, 2007 (courtesy of Alaska Volcano Observatory).
GVP Map Holdings

The maps shown below have been scanned from the GVP map archives and include the volcano on this page. Clicking on the small images will load the full 300 dpi map. Very small-scale maps (such as world maps) are not included. The maps database originated over 30 years ago, but was only recently updated and connected to our main database. We welcome users to tell us if they see incorrect information or other problems with the maps; please use the Contact GVP link at the bottom of the page to send us email.

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

There are no samples for Atka Volcanic Complex in the Smithsonian's NMNH Department of Mineral Sciences Rock and Ore collection.

External Sites