About Koshelev
Koshelev is a stratovolcano rising to 1,822 meters (5,978 feet) in Russia's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Its last known eruption was in 1690 CE. The volcano has produced 5 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 3.
Geography & Climate
Koshelev is located in Russia, within the Kuril Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 51.36° N, 156.75° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a temperate climate zone. With a summit elevation of 1,822 meters above sea level, Koshelev 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
Koshelev 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 Koshelev, 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 basalt / picro-basalt, 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
Koshelev has 5 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 4550 BCE to 1741 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a severe eruption capable of regional ash fall and pyroclastic flows in 1690 CE, reaching VEI 3 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. This eruption frequency indicates a moderately active volcanic system with periodic reawakenings.
Significance
With a maximum recorded VEI of 3, Koshelev has produced eruptions capable of generating pyroclastic flows and significant ash fall in the surrounding area. While not among the largest eruptions globally, VEI 3 events pose serious hazards to local populations and can disrupt regional air travel. With 5 recorded eruptions on file, Koshelev has enough documented activity to help scientists identify patterns in its eruptive behavior.
GVP Reference Summary
Koshelev is at the southern end of the Kamchatka Peninsula, SW of the Pauzhetka volcano-tectonic depression and NW of Kambalny volcano. It is a complex group of four stratovolcanoes constructed along an E-W line over a Pleistocene shield volcano. Central Koshelev stratovolcano, the highest peak of the volcanic massif, is Holocene in age; N- and SE-flank craters have also been active during the Holocene. Gorely, a Holocene cinder cone related to regional basaltic monogenetic volcanicm, is located about 12 km NW. The largest Holocene eruption took place from the eastern cone about 6,500 years ago. An explosive eruption was reported at the end of the 17th century. Major thermal fields are located in the summit crater of Valentin volcano and on the western flanks of west Koshelev volcano.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
5 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1741 | — | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1690 | 3 | Confirmed Eruption | SE flank |
| 1350 BCE | — | Confirmed Eruption | Northern flank |
| 4050 BCE | — | Confirmed Eruption | NW flank (Gorely) |
| 4550 BCE | — | Confirmed Eruption | Eastern cone |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Koshelev
Is Koshelev an active volcano?+
Koshelev is classified as active based on credible evidence of past eruptions. Although its last known eruption was in 1690 CE, volcanologists consider it capable of erupting again.
When did Koshelev last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Koshelev occurred in 1741 CE. The eruption was classified as a "Uncertain Eruption." Koshelev has 5 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Koshelev?+
Koshelev has a summit elevation of 1,822 meters (5,978 feet) above sea level. At 1,822 meters, it is a moderately sized volcanic peak, roughly comparable to Mount Vesuvius (1,281m).
What type of volcano is Koshelev?+
Koshelev 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 Koshelev located?+
Koshelev is located in Russia, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Kuril Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 51.356° latitude, 156.753° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Koshelev?+
Koshelev 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.
