March 6, 2012 –Kamchatka Volcano Roars Back to Life: Kamchatka, in the Russian Far East, the Bezymianny Volcano has been assigned the highest aviation danger code of “red.” The ash and gases that are being spewed from the crater can seriously damage aircraft systems. The volcano is also showing high seismic activity and signs that it may possibly erupt. On average the Bezymianny Volcano emits ash and gases 1-2 times a year. Previously the most powerful emissions were on March 30, 1956 (pictured above).

Following a period of explosive eruptions and lava-dome growth beginning in October 1955, a major explosive eruption took place on March 30, 1956 from Bezymianny volcano in Kamchatka. The plinian eruption, seen here from 100 kilometers (62 miles) to the west (pictured above), produced a 45-km-high (147,638 feet) ash column that followed a lateral blast and a debris avalanche created when the summit…