Activity of Chirinkotan and Sarychev Peak volcanoes in 2021 (Kuril Islands)

Abstract

This communication, based on satellite data and the results of visual observations, considers the main features of the activity of Chirinkotan and Sarychev Peak volcanoes in 2021. In the period from August 8 to 23, 2021, a moderate explosive eruption of Chirinkotan volcano took place. During this time, 11 volcanic explosions were recorded at an altitude of 1.5 to 4.5 km a.s.l. The parameters of the 2021 eruption were similar to previous eruptions in 2013–2015, 2016, 2017. At Sarychev Peak volcano on June 29, July 1, August 6 and November 26 of 2021 single relatively weak ejections to an altitude of about 2.2–3 km a.s.l. were recorded. Current activity of the volcano is associated with a recent effusive eruption that has taken place from December 2020 to February 2021, in which result a crater and mouth of the volcano turned out to be sealed with lava.