The Kamchatka Peninsula is experiencing seismic tremors ranging from magnitude 3.5 to 6.7. Additionally, in the wake of the earthquake, several regional volcanoes—Bezymianny, Shiveluch, Karymsky, and Klyuchevskaya—have shown increased activity.
Over one hundred aftershocks have been recorded in Kamchatka over the past day following a powerful earthquake earlier this week, according to the regional Ministry of Emergency Situations.
Tremors, with magnitudes between 3.5 and 6.7, are still being felt across the peninsula. Temporary shelters are accommodating 190 people, and psychologists are working with affected residents.
Furthermore, following the most powerful earthquake in decades, the region`s volcanoes—Bezymianny, Shiveluch, Karymsky, and Klyuchevskaya—have become active. Lava flows from Klyuchevskaya are reported by the `Volcanoes of Kamchatka` natural park to threaten the melting of the Bogdanovich glacier, which could, in turn, lead to destructive mudflows.
Tourists are advised to refrain from visiting local natural attractions. Evgeny Sivaev, chief editor of `Kamchatskoye Vremya` newspaper, commented on the situation:
Evgeny Sivaev
Chief Editor of `Kamchatskoye Vremya` newspaper“Aftershocks are ongoing. They have somewhat subsided recently, with approximately 30 to 40 unnoticeable tremors and one or two perceptible quakes occurring daily. The eruption history of Klyuchevskaya volcano is unrelated to the earthquake; distinct tectonic processes are at play. As Europe`s tallest active volcano, it is constantly in motion. Furthermore, it`s 800 kilometers from Petropavlovsk, while the earthquake epicenter was 160 kilometers away in a different direction, in Avachinsky Bay, where powerful tectonic activities are happening. It`s unclear whether these are true aftershocks, a waning phase, or or merely a lull before a more significant earthquake. Scientists refrain from making predictions, as short-term forecasts are unreliable. Consequently, people are relying on themselves. Regarding public sentiment, many are attempting to leave the city, especially with the upcoming weekend. Dacha properties are fully occupied, and prices for dachas and garages in Kamchatka have sharply increased. While people trust science, they primarily depend on their own preparedness. There`s no widespread panic, but residents are stocking up on essentials like canned goods, condensed milk, and sugar. There are also queues at gas stations, as some are taking fuel to their dachas as a precaution.”
The Bogdanovich Glacier, along with the Erman Glacier, has previously been affected by eruptions from Klyuchevskaya volcano. A similar event in the past led to glacier melting, resulting in rapid mudflows down the Sukhaya and Studenaya rivers, which damaged the Kozyrevsk–Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky highway.
