Kamchatka volcano becomes dangerous after 3 eruptions

Scientists have warned of increased volcanic threat after the Shiveluch volcano on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula erupted three times in the last day, according to local media on Friday.

One of the eruptions was particularly intense, sending an ash plume to an altitude of 11 km. Occurring at a new lava dome near the older Karan dome, it generated a pyroclastic flow, a hazardous mix of scorching gases, rocks and ash, which extended about 11 km down the volcano's western slope, according to the Institute of Volcanology.

"Shiveluch's eruptions are usually preceded by noticeable seismic signals, but recent major eruptions and the formation of a new eruptive center suggest changes in the volcano's behavior," said the Kamchatka branch of the Russian Geophysical Service, warning the eruptions were "not typical" for Shiveluch.

"Before these eruptions, seismic activity had been at background levels, with only minor thermal anomalies and steam-gas activity," it said. "This new, more volatile pattern of activity means Shiveluch has become more dangerous."

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