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Koryaksky

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  • Country
  • Volcanic Region
  • Landform | Volc Type
  • Last Known Eruption
  • 53.321°N
  • 158.712°E

  • 3,430 m
    11,253 ft

  • 300090
  • Latitude
  • Longitude

  • Summit
    Elevation

  • Volcano
    Number

Most Recent Weekly Report: 4 November-10 November 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 30 October-6 November seismic activity from Koryaksky did not exceed background levels. Fumarolic activity was noted on 29 October and during 4-5 November. The Level of Aviation Color Code was lowered to Green.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


Most Recent Bulletin Report: September 2009 (BGVN 34:09) Citation IconCite this Report

Continued ash emissions during May-September 2009

During March-18 April 2009 (BGVN 34:03) seismicity and volcanism continued at Karymsky, and ash plumes were detected for hundreds of kilometers. This report discusses the interval May-October 2009, with some discussion of earlier seismicity. The key conclusion for this new interval is that seismicity has not stopped and occasional, though smaller ash plumes continued.

In the mid-May 2009 volcanic and seismic activity decreased considerably. The active fumarole on the NW slope produced gas-steam plumes, but no longer contained appreciable ash (figure 8).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. Gas-steam emission seen on the NW side Koryaksky on 11 May 2009. The white snow on the volcano confirms the virtual absence of any ash in the plume. Photo by A. Socorenko.

On 2-3 June 2009, observers again saw small areas of snow that were dark gray, indicating some increased ash content. On 15-16 August 2009 instruments began to register a spasmodic volcanic tremor; seismicity increased, and on 17 August ash fell to the SW, forming a deposit 1 mm thick (figure 9).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 9. Ash plume from a vent on NW slope of Koryaksky. Snow on the slope covered fresh ashfall. Dark area around vent is due to local heating and melting of snow cover. Photo taken on 18 August 2009 by S. Chirkov.

Seismic analysis. Seliverstov (2009) analyzed seismicity for May 2008 to 10 June 2009, looking at events larger than Ks 4 (Class 4 earthquakes, roughly those larger than M ~ 1.2) and found a spatial and temporal pattern to this stronger seismicity. During March 2008 a prominent swarm of earthquakes was often centered at about 5-10 km depth. Smaller earthquakes were also seen around that time, several at ~ 12 km depth, and some at 15 km depth. This stronger seismicity then waned for several months until late June. During August 2008 to 10 June 2009, earthquakes were numerous, often centered near 5 km depth.

Figure 10 shows a representative set of hypocenters during 3 January 2009-6 November 2009. The pattern shown was similar to that seen during various months during 2008 through mid-2009. Other patterns during 2008 to mid-2009 included intervals where epicenters dipped, as noted in the analysis presented by Seliverstov (2009). Despite decreased volcanic activity, the elevated seismicity remained until at least 10 June 2009.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. Seismicity of Koryaksky (and Avachinsky, to the SE) recorded during May-October 2009. Map shows location and depths of earthquakes (white line is cross-section AB. Cross-section shows hypocenters within 20 km depth. Courtesy of the Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service, Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS).

The number of earthquakes recorded within 10-15 km of the summit during January through October 2009 by the KB GS RAS peaked in April with 422 events, and again in August with 245 events. Otherwise, the interval commonly had monthly totals of 100-200 with the lowest during January (59 events) and October (37 events).

References. Seliverstov, N., 2009, The activity Koryaksky volcano, Kamchatka, Vestnik KRAUNC, Earth Science Series; Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 2009, v. 13, p.7-9 [ISSN 1816-5524]. In Russian.

Information Contacts: Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Far East Division, Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Piip Blvd., Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.kscnet.ru/ivs/); Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service of the Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS), Sergey Senukov, Russia (URL: http://www.emsd.ru/); Alexander Socorenko and Sergei Chirkov, IV&S FED RAS; Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), Tokyo, Japan (URL: http://ds.data.jma.go.jp/svd/vaac/data/).

Weekly Reports - Index


2009: February | March | April | June | August | September | November
2008: December
2003: December


4 November-10 November 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 30 October-6 November seismic activity from Koryaksky did not exceed background levels. Fumarolic activity was noted on 29 October and during 4-5 November. The Level of Aviation Color Code was lowered to Green.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


2 September-8 September 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that activity from Koryaksky decreased on 27 August and remained low through 4 September. Gas-and-steam plumes rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,100 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. Tremor was detected by the seismic network during 27-28 August and 1 September. The Aviation Color Code level was lowered to Yellow.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


26 August-1 September 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity from Koryaksky was slightly above background levels during 20-23 August and at background levels during 24-27 August. Ash plumes were seen in satellite imagery drifting more than 385 km in easterly directions. Gas-and-steam plumes containing ash that rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,100 ft) a.s.l. were seen drifting in multiple directions during 26-27 August. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


19 August-25 August 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 14-21 August seismic activity from Koryaksky was slightly above background levels. During 13-16 August, gas-and-steam plumes rose to altitudes of 3.5-5 km (11,500-16,400 ft) a.s.l. Based on visual observations during 16-20 August, gas-and-steam plumes containing ash rose to altitudes of 3.5-4.2 km (11,500-13,800 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. Ash plumes were also seen in satellite imagery, drifting 215 km E and W. On 23 August, a probable ash plume detected in satellite imagery drifted 50 km ESE. During 24-25 August, seismicity increased; more than 100 earthquakes were recorded. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


12 August-18 August 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 10-12 August seismic activity from Koryaksky was above background levels. On 12 August, an ash plume seen on satellite imagery drifted 180 km ESE at an altitude of 3.5 km (11,500 ft) a.s.l. During 15-16 August seismic activity increased, and seismic tremor was detected. On 16 August, a gas plume with a small amount of ash was seen on satellite imagery drifting 80 km WNW. During 17-18 August, an ash plume rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,100 ft) a.s.l. Ashfall up to 1 mm thick was reported in areas to the SW. The Level of Concern Color Code was raised to Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


17 June-23 June 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

Moderate to strong fumarolic activity at Koryaksky has been reported by KVERT in recent weeks. Satellite data showed a weak thermal anomaly over the volcano 11 and 13 June. The Level of Concern Color Code remained at Yellow.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


22 April-28 April 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

During 17-25 April, KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was above background levels and weak volcanic tremor was detected. Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash drifted in multiple directions during 17-18 April. On 17 and 18 April, gas-and-ash plumes were also seen on satellite imagery and drifted 100 km NE. On 20 April, a sulfur dioxide plume extended about 15 km from the volcano. During 26-28 April, seismic activity decreased to background levels; tremor was occasionally detected. The Level of Concern Color Code was lowered to Yellow.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


15 April-21 April 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

During 10-17 April, KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was above background levels. Gas-and-ash plumes were seen on satellite imagery and drifted 30-680 km in multiple directions. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange. Based on information from the Yelizovo Airport and analysis of satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 18 and 21 April ash plumes rose to altitudes of 3.7-4.6 km (12,000-15,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S, SW, W, and NE.

Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT); Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)


8 April-14 April 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was elevated on 7 and 8 April and at background levels on the other days during 3-10 April. Weak volcanic tremor was detected on 7 April. Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash originating from two vents on the NW flank rose to an altitude of 5.4 km (17,700 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE, NW, SE, and SW during the reporting period. Gas-and-ash plumes were also seen on satellite imagery and drifted 290 km in multiple directions. On 11 April, KVERT staff reported ashfall in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky (30 km S). Ash accumulated to 0.1-2.5 cm thickness near the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (IVS) FED RAS. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


1 April-7 April 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was at background levels during 27 March-3 April. Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E, SE, S, and W during the reporting period. During 27-28 and 31 March, and 1-2 April, gas-and-ash plumes were also seen on satellite imagery and drifted 313 km E, in southerly directions. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


25 March-31 March 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was at background levels during 20-27 March. Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S, SE, W and NW during the reporting period. On 25 and 26 March, gas-and-ash plumes were also seen on satellite imagery and drifted 225 km SE. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange.

Based on information from the Yelizovo Airport and KEMSD, and analysis of satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 26-27 and 29 March ash plumes rose to altitudes of 3-3.7 km (10,000-12,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S, SW, and W.

Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT); Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)


18 March-24 March 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was elevated on 13 March and at background levels on the other days during 14-20 March. Observers reported that gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in easterly directions during the reporting period. The plumes were also seen on satellite imagery drifting 140 km away from the volcano. Ash was emitted from the upper fumarolic vent and covered the flanks. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


11 March-17 March 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was elevated on 6 and 8 March and at background levels on the other days during 7-13 March. Observers reported that gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions during the reporting period. The plumes were also seen on satellite imagery. Ash deposits were seen near the volcano. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange.

Based on information from the Yelizovo Airport and KVERT, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 11-12 and 15 March ash plumes rose to altitudes of 3-5.2 km (10,000-17,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S, SE, E, and N.

Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT); Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)


4 March-10 March 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was above background levels on 3 March and at background levels on the other days during 27 February-6 March. Observers reported that during 3-5 March gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,100 ft) a.s.l. and drifted ENE, E, and SE. The plumes were also seen on satellite imagery. Ash deposits were seen at the summit, and on the N flank at a thickness of about 4 cm. Ash deposits 1-2 mm thick had accumulated in an area between Koryaksky and Avachinsky volcanoes. A weak new fumarole was seen in the crater. The Level of Concern Color Code remained Orange.

Based on information from the Yelizovo Airport, the Tokyo VAAC reported ash on 8 March. On 10 March, an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE.

Sources: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT); Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)


25 February-3 March 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 25 February-4 March seismic activity at Koryaksky was at background levels. Observers reported that during 3-4 March gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,100 ft) a.s.l. and drifted more than 200 km ENE. Ash deposits were seen at the summit. Ash deposits 1-2 mm thick accumulated in an area between Koryaksky and Avachinsky volcanoes. The Level of Concern Color Code was raised to Orange.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


31 December-6 January 2009 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 26 December-7 January seismic activity at Koryaksky was at background levels. Observers reported that during 30-31 December gas-and-steam plumes possibly containing a small amount of ash drifted along the surface of the NW flank. During 6-7 January gas-and-steam plumes drifted SW. The Level of Concern Color Code was lowered to Yellow.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


24 December-30 December 2008 Citation IconCite this Report

KVERT reported that during 23-24 December gas-and-steam plumes from Koryaksky containing a small amount of ash were detected on satellite images. On 24 December observers from the Nalychevo valley reported that a dark plume rose 200-300 m from a fumarolic vent (about 3 km a.s.l.) on the NW flank of Koryaksky and a boom was heard later that night. Ash plumes detected in satellite imagery on 25 December drifted about 200 km NE. On 28 December, KVERT raised the Alert Level to Orange and reported that a Vulcanian eruption was occurring. Ash plumes rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,200 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW.

Source: Kamchatkan Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT)


3 December-9 December 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a press report, a M 3.6 earthquake followed by ~2 hours of seismicity at ~6 km depth was detected at Koryaksky.

Source: RIA Novosti


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.

03/1994 (BGVN 19:03) Significant increase in seismic activity centered at 5 km depth

04/1994 (BGVN 19:04) Seismicity returns to background levels; alert status lowered

09/1996 (BGVN 21:09) Background seismicity in late July and August

11/1997 (BGVN 22:11) Above-background seismicity in late December

12/2003 (BGVN 28:12) News report of a 12 December, M 3.6 earthquake at 6 km depth

01/2009 (BGVN 34:01) Seismicity, then ash eruptions, after ~ 51-year repose

03/2009 (BGVN 34:03) Increased ash emissions during March and April 2009

09/2009 (BGVN 34:09) Continued ash emissions during May-September 2009




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


March 1994 (BGVN 19:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Significant increase in seismic activity centered at 5 km depth

During 6 March-8 April there was a significant increase in seismic activity. Most of the 43 seismic events recorded took place at a depth of 5 km beneath the volcano. The three strongest earthquakes occurred on 4 April. The level of seismic activity beneath the volcano decreased during the second week of April; only a few weak earthquakes were registered at depths of 5-10 km. On 8 April the Level of Concern Color Code was upgraded to Yellow from Green, indicating that an eruption is possible with little or no additional warning.

Information Contacts: V. Kirianov, IVGG.


April 1994 (BGVN 19:04) Citation IconCite this Report

Seismicity returns to background levels; alert status lowered

The increased level of seismicity . . . continued to be recorded beneath the volcano (1-2 earthquakes/day) through the end of April. These high-frequency tectonic events (with some unusual characteristics) occurred at 2-12 km depth with a maximum magnitude of 2. This type of event at this depth range has not been identified since the present seismic net on the volcano was installed in 1982. Although the seismic activity continued into early May at a rate of 1-2 earthquakes/day, the lack of additional increase led to the downgrading of the Level of Concern Color Code back to Green.

Seismicity beneath the Koryaksky-Avachinsky area increased above background levels in mid-May to a rate of 6-9 earthquakes/day. During a 2-day period, 18 earthquakes were detected at ~12 km (11 May) and 0-9 km depth (12 May). Seismicity had returned to background levels by 26 May.

Information Contacts: V. Kirianov, IVGG.


September 1996 (BGVN 21:09) Citation IconCite this Report

Background seismicity in late July and August

Seismicity was at or a little above normal background levels in late July and August. Historical activity at Koryaksky has been largely fumarolic, although a weak explosive eruption took place in 1956-57 from the summit crater and a radial fissure on the upper NW flank.

Information Contacts: Tom Miller, Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), 4200 University Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508-4667, USA; Vladimir Kirianov, Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Institute of Volcanic Geology and Geochemistry, Piip Ave. 9, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia.


November 1997 (BGVN 22:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Above-background seismicity in late December

Seismicity was at normal background levels from September 1996 through mid-December 1997; the period of normal activity began in July 1996 (BGVN 21:09). However, during 22-29 December, seismicity was reported above background level.

Information Contacts: Vladimir Kirianov, Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Institute of Volcanic Geology and Geochemistry, Piip Ave. 9, Petropavlovsk- Kamchatskiy 683006, Russia; Tom Miller, 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.


December 2003 (BGVN 28:12) Citation IconCite this Report

News report of a 12 December, M 3.6 earthquake at 6 km depth

Our last report for Koryaksky was BGVN 22:11, discussing seismicity in 1997. According to a Russian Information Agency Novosti press report, on 12 December 2003 instruments detected an M 3.6 earthquake followed by ~ 2 hours of seismicity at ~ 6 km depth beneath Koryaksky. A cyclonic weather system over the peninsula obstructed visual observations.

Information Contacts: Russian Information Agency Novosti (URL: http://russia-insider.com/).


January 2009 (BGVN 34:01) Citation IconCite this Report

Seismicity, then ash eruptions, after ~ 51-year repose

Koryaksky, which had lacked fumarolic activity during the last ~ 51 years, began steaming after seven months of local seismicity. The increased seismicity became prominent in March 2008 (figure 1) and the first steaming was recorded on 6 October 2008. The first fumarole vent to appear was located at ~ 3 km elevation on the upper NW slope. Koryaksky, a large snow-laden stratovolcano, forms the most prominent feature of the Avachinskaya volcano group. Episodes of elevated seismicity have previously occurred, as reported in December 2003 (BGVN 28:12).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 1. Seismicity of Koryaksky (and Avachinsky, to the SE) recorded during February 2008-February 2009. a) A map of the region showing location and depths of earthquakes. The white line is trace of cross section AB; a 35-km-diameter circle encloses epicenters of earthquakes plotted in c). b) Histogram showing daily earthquakes with respect to time; ascending curve is the cumulative number of earthquakes (reaching a total of 970 for the interval). c) Hypocenters projected onto the vertical plane of cross section AB. Courtesy of KB GS RAS.

Only two earthquakes struck on 23 December 2008, both at ~ 5 km depth. Observers also heard a booming sound from the volcano at night. NOAA 17 satellite data collected at 2357 UTC on 23 December revealed that a dense ash plume extended over 60 km laterally, and an ash-poor ash plume continued beyond that for another 140 km NE. During 24-25 December observers in the Nalychevo valley saw a dark ash column rise about 200-300 m from the upper NW-flank vent.

On 28 December 2008 moderately explosive vulcanian-type eruptions occurred. Ash plumes rose to ~ 4 km altitude and extend NW. Observers also saw significant fumarolic activity at two vents. During a break in cloud cover on 30-31 December observers saw gas-and-steam plumes, which were thought to contain small amounts of ash. They drifted along the surface of the NW flank, some reaching ~ 4 km altitude. A 2 January KVERT report noted background seismicity during 31 December-6 January, with 1-7 volcanic earthquakes per day and possible episodes of tremor during 30 December to 1 January.

During 6-8 January 2009 strong fumarolic activity continued. According to visual data, gas-steam plumes extended SW from three vents. Gray deposits were visible at the area near the summit. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate the scene on 8 and 10 January 2009. Strong fumarolic activity also prevailed on 14 and 18-19 February 2009.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 2. Gas and steam escaping from Koryaksky on 8 January 2009. Three vents on the NW slope trace an older fissure. Photo by Alexandr Socorenko.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 3. View of Koryaksky looking W from Petropavlovsk on 10 January 2009. The photo was taken from the roof of Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Photo by Alexandr Socorenko.

KVERT issued reports on 4 March 2009 noting increased activity, with some ash-bearing plumes extending over 200 km to the NE-ENE on 3-4 March. For the previous week, seismicity was again at background. Ash deposits were identified both on the summit and in the saddle to Avachinsky. At the latter area on 4 March, the deposits reached 1-2 mm thickness.

In a 5 March report, KVERT noted plumes containing small amounts of ash rising to 3.7 km and extending over 220 km. They blew to the ENE, E, and SE on 3-5 March. Koryaksy's N flank contained fresh ash deposits ~ 4.0 cm thick. The crater contained a weak, new fumarole.

Information Contacts: Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (IV&S) Far East Division, Russian Academy of Sciences (FED RAS); Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service of the Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS), Piip Ave. 9, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.kscnet.ru/ivs, http://www.emsd.ru/~ssl/monitoring/main.htm); Alexander Sokorenko, IV&S; Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), Tokyo, Japan (URL: http://ds.data.jma.go.jp/svd/vaac/data/).


March 2009 (BGVN 34:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Increased ash emissions during March and April 2009

Koryaksky ended ~ 51 years without fumarolic activity with an eruption late in 2008. Activity that began on about 24 December 2008 continued through 5 March 2009 (BGVN 34:01). Fresh ash deposits in early March could be seen on both the summit, E, and SSW slopes of Koryaksky, and on the NNW slope of Avachinsky (figure 4). Between the two volcanoes, the early March ash deposits reached 1-2 mm thick.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 4. (top) Ash plume from Koryaksky (peak at left) extending to the ESE in an eruption that left deposits of ash on Koryaksky and Avachinsky (peak at right). (bottom) Ash deposits on Koryaksky on the same date. Both photos from the town of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky on 7 March 2009 by A. Sokorenko.

Numerous plumes were observed during this reporting interval, 6 March to mid-April 2009 (table 1). A report from 8-14 April noted the presence of two vents on the NW flank. A small SO2 plume was noted on 20 April. Seismicity often fluctuated, with considerable intervals at background level punctuated by intervals where it was elevated. Occasional tremor was recorded, but it was often weak (low amplitude).

Table 1. A compilation of eruptive plume behavior from Koryaksky based on information from the Yelizovo Airport, KVERT, and KEMSD (the Kamchatkan Experimental and Methodical Seismological Department). The data were initially compiled by the Tokyo VAAC in reports for aviators in an effort to avoid aircraft encounters with volcanic ash. Few of the plumes were considered ash rich, most were considered as gas plumes containing small amounts of ash. Courtesy of the Tokyo VAAC.

Date Plume drift direction(s) Observations
08 Mar 2009 -- Ash reported
10 Mar 2009 SE Ash plume rose to 3.7 km
11-12 and 15 Mar 2009 S, SE, E, and N Ash plumes rose to 3-5.2 km
18 Mar-24 Mar 2009 E, S, SE, W, and NW Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to 4 km. On satellite imagery plumes drifting up to 140 km away from the volcano. Ash was emitted from the upper fumarolic vent and covered the flanks.
25 Mar-31 Mar 2009 -- Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash to 3-4 km. (On 25th and 26th, gas-and-ash plumes seen on satellite imagery drifting to 225 km SE.)
01 Apr-07 Apr 2009 E, SE, S, and W Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to 4 km. (During 27-28 and 31 March, and 1-2 April, gas-and-ash plumes were also seen on satellite imagery and drifted 313 km E, in southerly directions.)
08 Apr-14 Apr 2009 NE, NW, SE, and SW Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash originating from two vents on the NW flank rose to an altitude of 5.4 km. Plumes were also seen on satellite imagery and drifted 290 km in multiple directions. On 11 April, KVERT staff reported ashfall in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky (30 km S). Ash accumulated to 0.1-2.5 cm thickness near the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (IVS).
15 Apr-21 Apr 2009 Multiple directions, including S, SW, W, NE Gas-and-ash plumes to 3.7-4.6 km altitude; on satellite imagery (drifting 30-680 km).
17 Apr-18 Apr 2009 -- Gas plumes containing a small amount of ash drifted in multiple directions. Gas-and-ash plumes seen on satellite imagery drifted 100 km NE. (On 20 April a sulfur dioxide plume extended about 15 km.)

KVERT reported that seismic activity at Koryaksky was elevated on 6 and 8 March and at background levels during 7 and 9-13 March. Observers reported that gas plumes containing a small amount of ash rose to an altitude of 4 km and drifted in multiple directions during the week of 11-17 March. The plumes were also seen on satellite imagery.

An eruption on 9 April 2009 followed an increase in the number of local earthquakes and tremor during the previous month (figure 5). The total number of earthquakes during February 2008-December 2008 was 717. That was less than the total of 766 for the first four months in 2009, which were as follows: January, 58; February, 195; March, 239; and April, 274. High level gas-steam and ash emissions occurred during March-April. Some plumes extended more than 200 km (table 1).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 5. Seismicity of Koryaksky (and Avachinsky, to the SE) recorded during January-April 2009. Map (left) shows location and depths of earthquakes (white line is cross-section AB; 20-km-diameter circle encloses epicenters of earthquakes plotted on histogram. Cross-section shows hypocenters projected onto the vertical plane along AB. Histogram shows daily Koryaksky earthquakes with respect to time; ascending curve is the cumulative number of earthquakes (reaching a total of 652 for the interval). Courtesy of the Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service of the Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS).

On 9 April a photo was taken showing a strong ash plume emerging from fissures in the glacier on Koryaksky's NW flank. On 13 April a flight over the area enabled scientists to measure temperature around two vents (figures 6 and 7). Temperatures of the vent areas reached 400°C. This situation was attributed to glacial instability owing to melting parts of the glacier near the vents.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 6. A photo taken from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky (~35 km N of the volcano) illustrating powerful ash-bearing emissions from the NW flank of Koryaksky. Photo taken by Sergei Ushakov 9 April 2009.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 7. A photo showing two vents on the NW flank of Koryaksky. The upper plume is ash rich, the other contains only gas and steam. Photo taken by Alexander Sokorenko on 18 April 2009.

Information Contacts: Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (IV&S), Far East Division, Russian Academy of Sciences (FED RAS), Piip Ave. 9, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.kscnet.ru/ivs/); Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service, Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS), Piip Ave. 9, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.emsd.ru/~ssl/monitoring/main.htm); Alexander Sokorenko and Sergey Ushakov, IV&S; Kamchatkan Experimental and Methodical Seismological Department (KEMSD), GS RAS, Russia; Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), Tokyo, Japan (URL: http://ds.data.jma.go.jp/svd/vaac/data/).


September 2009 (BGVN 34:09) Citation IconCite this Report

Continued ash emissions during May-September 2009

During March-18 April 2009 (BGVN 34:03) seismicity and volcanism continued at Karymsky, and ash plumes were detected for hundreds of kilometers. This report discusses the interval May-October 2009, with some discussion of earlier seismicity. The key conclusion for this new interval is that seismicity has not stopped and occasional, though smaller ash plumes continued.

In the mid-May 2009 volcanic and seismic activity decreased considerably. The active fumarole on the NW slope produced gas-steam plumes, but no longer contained appreciable ash (figure 8).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. Gas-steam emission seen on the NW side Koryaksky on 11 May 2009. The white snow on the volcano confirms the virtual absence of any ash in the plume. Photo by A. Socorenko.

On 2-3 June 2009, observers again saw small areas of snow that were dark gray, indicating some increased ash content. On 15-16 August 2009 instruments began to register a spasmodic volcanic tremor; seismicity increased, and on 17 August ash fell to the SW, forming a deposit 1 mm thick (figure 9).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 9. Ash plume from a vent on NW slope of Koryaksky. Snow on the slope covered fresh ashfall. Dark area around vent is due to local heating and melting of snow cover. Photo taken on 18 August 2009 by S. Chirkov.

Seismic analysis. Seliverstov (2009) analyzed seismicity for May 2008 to 10 June 2009, looking at events larger than Ks 4 (Class 4 earthquakes, roughly those larger than M ~ 1.2) and found a spatial and temporal pattern to this stronger seismicity. During March 2008 a prominent swarm of earthquakes was often centered at about 5-10 km depth. Smaller earthquakes were also seen around that time, several at ~ 12 km depth, and some at 15 km depth. This stronger seismicity then waned for several months until late June. During August 2008 to 10 June 2009, earthquakes were numerous, often centered near 5 km depth.

Figure 10 shows a representative set of hypocenters during 3 January 2009-6 November 2009. The pattern shown was similar to that seen during various months during 2008 through mid-2009. Other patterns during 2008 to mid-2009 included intervals where epicenters dipped, as noted in the analysis presented by Seliverstov (2009). Despite decreased volcanic activity, the elevated seismicity remained until at least 10 June 2009.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. Seismicity of Koryaksky (and Avachinsky, to the SE) recorded during May-October 2009. Map shows location and depths of earthquakes (white line is cross-section AB. Cross-section shows hypocenters within 20 km depth. Courtesy of the Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service, Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS).

The number of earthquakes recorded within 10-15 km of the summit during January through October 2009 by the KB GS RAS peaked in April with 422 events, and again in August with 245 events. Otherwise, the interval commonly had monthly totals of 100-200 with the lowest during January (59 events) and October (37 events).

References. Seliverstov, N., 2009, The activity Koryaksky volcano, Kamchatka, Vestnik KRAUNC, Earth Science Series; Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 2009, v. 13, p.7-9 [ISSN 1816-5524]. In Russian.

Information Contacts: Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (KVERT), Far East Division, Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Piip Blvd., Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, 683006, Russia (URL: http://www.kscnet.ru/ivs/); Kamchatka Branch of the Geophysical Service of the Russian Academy of Sciences (KB GS RAS), Sergey Senukov, Russia (URL: http://www.emsd.ru/); Alexander Socorenko and Sergei Chirkov, IV&S FED RAS; Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), Tokyo, Japan (URL: http://ds.data.jma.go.jp/svd/vaac/data/).

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 7 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

2008 Dec 23 (?) - 2009 Aug 27 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Upper NW flank (3000 m)
2008 Dec 23 (?) - 2009 Aug 27 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 7 Events for Episode 1 at Upper NW flank (3000 m)

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
2008 Dec 23
(?)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
2009 Mar 11    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1956 Dec 16 ± 15 days - 1957 Jun 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Summit and upper NW flank (3000 m)
1956 Dec 16 ± 15 days - 1957 Jun 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 7 Events for Episode 1 at Summit and upper NW flank (3000 m)

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (volcanic) Before eruption.
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Pyroclastic flow
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow
1956 Dec    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1957 Jan 17    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1926 Dec 22 - 1926 Dec 22 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1926 Dec 22 - 1926 Dec 22 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1926 Dec 22    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1895 Oct 15 ± 45 days - 1896 ] Discredited Eruption

1890 ± 3 years Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption Upper SW flank
1890 ± 3 years - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Upper SW flank

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
1890 ± 3 years    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1550 BCE (?) Confirmed Eruption  

Episode 1 | Eruption South and SW flanks
1550 BCE (?) - Unknown Evidence from Isotopic: 14C (uncalibrated)

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at South and SW flanks

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow

1950 BCE ± 300 years Confirmed Eruption  

Episode 1 | Eruption South and SW flanks
1950 BCE ± 300 years - Unknown Evidence from Isotopic: 14C (uncalibrated)

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at South and SW flanks

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow

5050 BCE (?) Confirmed Eruption  

Episode 1 | Eruption
5050 BCE (?) - Unknown Evidence from Correlation: Tephrochronology
Deformation History

There is no Deformation History data available for Koryaksky.

Emission History

There is data available for 1 emission periods. Expand each entry for additional details.


Emissions during 2009 Aug 16 - 2009 Aug 16 [2 kt SO2 at 4 km altitude]

Start Date: 2009 Aug 16 Stop Date: 2009 Aug 16 Method: Satellite (Aura OMI)
SO2 Altitude Min: 4 km SO2 Altitude Max: 4 km Total SO2 Mass: 2 kt

Data Details

Date Start Date End Assumed SO2 Altitude SO2 Algorithm SO2 Mass
20090816 4.0 2.000
Photo Gallery

Koryaksky is the part of the NW-trending Avachinskaya volcano group near Kamchatka's largest city, Petropavlovsk. This view from below the saddle between Avachinsky and Koryaksky volcanoes shows the eroded SE flank. The youngest lava flows are on the upper W flank and below SE-flank scoria cones. Moderate explosive eruptions have occurred since the first historical eruption in 1895.

Photo by Andrei Tsvetkov.
Koryaksky is one of the volcanoes surrounding Avachinsky Bay, as seen here from the south. Koryaksky and Avachinsky, its neighbors to the southeast, are popular recreational destinations from the city of Petropavlovsk.

Photo by Oleg Volynets, 1989 (Institute of Volcanology, Petropavlovsk).
An aerial view of the Koryaksky summit shows a NW-flank fumarole that has remained active since a 1956-57 eruption. Explosive activity took place from the summit crater (forming the notch to the upper-right) and a radial fissure that extended from 3,100 to 3,000 m elevation on the upper NW flank. The eruption began in December 1956 and reached its peak in late January, when the strongest explosions occurred.

Photo by Oleg Volynets (Institute of Volcanology, Petropavlovsk).
The two historically active volcanoes Koryaksky (left) and Avachinsky (right) volcanoes at dusk beyond the city of Petropavlovsk and Avachinsky bay.

Photo by Kamchatka Volcanic Eruptions Response Team (courtesy of Dan Miller, U.S. Geological Survey).
The Avachinskaya volcano group consists of a NW-SE-trending group of cones N of Petropavlovsk. Seen here from the western outskirts of the city with Koryaksky on the left, Avachinsky to the right-center, and Kozelskiy cone to the far right.

Photo by Vera Ponomareva, 1996 (Institute of Volcanic Geology and Geochemistry, Petropavlovsk).
Koryaksky is seen here in winter from the Institute of Volcanology in Petropavlovsk, looking N down Piip Boulevard. The eastern flank of the volcano contains deep radial valleys exposing lava flows that form much of the volcano. Koryaksky is located along a NW-SE-trending volcanic chain beginning in the NW with the Pleistocene volcanoes of Aak and Arik that are visible to the left.

Photo by Vera Ponomareva, 1997 (Institute of Volcanic Geology and Geochemistry, Petropavlovsk).
GVP Map Holdings

Maps are not currently available due to technical issues.

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

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

External Sites