About Karpinsky Group
Karpinsky Group is a complex rising to 1,326 meters (4,351 feet) in Russia's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. It last erupted in 1952 CE, and volcanologists consider it an active volcanic system. The volcano has produced 1 recorded eruption, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1.
Geography & Climate
Karpinsky Group is located in Russia, within the Kuril Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 50.15° N, 155.37° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a temperate climate zone. With a summit elevation of 1,326 meters above sea level, Karpinsky Group is a moderately sized peak that remains accessible to hikers and researchers for much of the year. 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
Karpinsky Group 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 Karpinsky Group, 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
Karpinsky Group has 1 recorded eruption in the geological database, spanning from 1952 CE to 1952 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a gentle, effusive event in 1952 CE, reaching VEI 1 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. The most recent eruption in 1952 CE places this volcano within the modern era of volcanological observation.
GVP Reference Summary
The Karpinsky group on southern Paramushir Island consists of three Holocene andesitic volcanic centers at the southern end of the Karpinsky Ridge. A postulated caldera is thought to have been primarily excavated by glaciers (Gorshkov, 1970). The NE cone has a crater breached to the NW that contains a small horseshoe-shaped cone and a vigorous fumarole along the NE crater wall. A lava flow originating from the cone traveled 7 km to the SE. The southern cone forms the high point of the Karpinsky massif and fed lava flows to the SE and W. The NW cone displays hot springs and sulfur cones containing liquid sulfur that is occasionally ejected outward. A minor ash ejection following an earthquake in 1952 marked the only historical eruption.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
1 Recorded Eruption
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1952 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | East side of Karpinsky Ridge |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Karpinsky Group
Is Karpinsky Group an active volcano?+
Yes, Karpinsky Group is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 1952 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Karpinsky Group last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Karpinsky Group occurred in 1952 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Karpinsky Group has 1 recorded eruption in total.
How high is Karpinsky Group?+
Karpinsky Group has a summit elevation of 1,326 meters (4,351 feet) above sea level. At 1,326 meters, it is a moderately sized volcanic peak, roughly comparable to Mount Vesuvius (1,281m).
What type of volcano is Karpinsky Group?+
Karpinsky Group is classified as a Complex. Complex volcanoes have distinct geological characteristics that set them apart from other volcanic types.
Where is Karpinsky Group located?+
Karpinsky Group is located in Russia, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Kuril Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 50.148° latitude, 155.373° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Karpinsky Group?+
Visiting Karpinsky Group requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 1952 CE, conditions can change rapidly. Always consult local geological authorities and follow official warnings before visiting. Many active volcanoes have designated safe viewing areas and guided tour options.
