About Vysoky
Vysoky is a stratovolcano rising to 2,129 meters (6,985 feet) in Russia's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Its last known eruption dates to 550 BCE, in prehistoric times. The volcano has produced 1 recorded eruption.
Geography & Climate
Vysoky is located in Russia, within the Eastern Kamchatka Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 55.06° N, 160.76° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a subarctic climate zone. At 2,129 meters above sea level, Vysoky rises above the surrounding terrain into montane or subalpine conditions. The elevation creates distinct ecological zones along its flanks, from forested lower slopes to exposed rocky terrain near the summit. The volcanic landform is characterized as a composite, which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Vysoky sits in a subduction zone, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, creating intense heat and pressure that generates magma. Subduction zones are responsible for many of the world's most explosive volcanoes and deadliest eruptions. For communities in Russia near Vysoky, this tectonic setting means the volcano is capable of producing powerful explosive eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and lahars that can threaten populated areas within tens of kilometers of the summit. The dominant rock type is andesite / basaltic andesite, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from rapidly cooling, low-viscosity lava. Basaltic eruptions tend to be less explosive and produce fluid lava flows that can travel long distances. While less immediately dangerous than explosive eruptions, basaltic lava flows can destroy structures and infrastructure in their path, and volcanic gases released during these eruptions can affect air quality over a wide area.
Eruption History Summary
Vysoky has 1 recorded eruption in the geological database, spanning from 550 BCE to 550 BCE.
GVP Reference Summary
Visoky, at the northern end of a chain of small volcanoes trending NNW from Gamchen volcano, is a small Holocene stratovolcano with a youthful-looking summit crater constructed over the east flank of the Pleistocene Bogdanovich shield volcano. Vysoky (also spelled Vysokii) lies only 4 km NE of Komarov volcano. Another small Holocene volcano lies between Komarov and Vysoky. These mark the northernmost Holocene volcanoes of the Gamchen volcanic ridge and the northernmost of the near-trench portion of the Eastern volcanic belt of Kamchatka related to subduction of the Pacific Plate. Visoky was active throughout much of the Holocene until as recently as at least about 2000 years ago, when voluminous lava flows were traveled down the volcano's flanks.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
1 Recorded Eruption
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 550 BCE | 0 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Vysoky
Is Vysoky an active volcano?+
Vysoky is not currently classified as active. Its activity evidence is listed as "Eruption Dated." The last known eruption was in 550 BCE. However, no volcano is ever considered permanently extinct.
When did Vysoky last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Vysoky occurred in 550 BCE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 0. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Vysoky has 1 recorded eruption in total.
How high is Vysoky?+
Vysoky has a summit elevation of 2,129 meters (6,985 feet) above sea level. At 2,129 meters, it is comparable in height to many significant mountain peaks and stands well above the tree line.
What type of volcano is Vysoky?+
Vysoky is classified as a Stratovolcano. Stratovolcanoes (also called composite volcanoes) are steep, conical volcanoes built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash. They are among the most common and dangerous types, known for explosive eruptions.
Where is Vysoky located?+
Vysoky is located in Russia, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Eastern Kamchatka Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 55.064° latitude, 160.765° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Vysoky?+
Vysoky can generally be visited, but as with any volcano, visitors should check local conditions and any advisory notices before traveling. Russia may have specific regulations for accessing volcanic areas. Guided tours are often the safest and most informative way to experience a volcano.
