About Vilyuchinsky
Vilyuchinsky is a stratovolcano rising to 2,173 meters (7,130 feet) in Russia's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. The volcano is currently active, with its most recent eruption in 8050 BCE. The volcano has produced 1 recorded eruption, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2.
Geography & Climate
Vilyuchinsky is located in Russia, within the Kuril Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 52.70° N, 158.28° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a temperate climate zone. At 2,173 meters above sea level, Vilyuchinsky 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
Vilyuchinsky 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 Vilyuchinsky, 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
Vilyuchinsky has 1 recorded eruption in the geological database, spanning from 8050 BCE to 8050 BCE. The most powerful recorded event was an explosive event producing ash plumes up to several kilometers in 8050 BCE, reaching VEI 2 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index.
GVP Reference Summary
Vilyuchinsky, or Vilyuchik, is a steep-sided Pleistocene-to-Holocene stratovolcano south of Avachinsky Bay. Deep erosional gullies dissect the flanks, with Lava domes and young basaltic cinder cones at its base. Most of the growth of the volcano took place during the late Pleistocene. The last significant eruption took place from the summit crater about 10,000 years ago, producing a moderate airfall deposit and a lava flow. Landslides and rock avalanches have affected habited areas.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
1 Recorded Eruption
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8050 BCE | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Vilyuchinsky
Is Vilyuchinsky an active volcano?+
Vilyuchinsky is not currently classified as active. Its activity evidence is listed as "Eruption Dated." The last known eruption was in 8050 BCE. However, no volcano is ever considered permanently extinct.
When did Vilyuchinsky last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Vilyuchinsky occurred in 8050 BCE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Vilyuchinsky has 1 recorded eruption in total.
How high is Vilyuchinsky?+
Vilyuchinsky has a summit elevation of 2,173 meters (7,130 feet) above sea level. At 2,173 meters, it is comparable in height to many significant mountain peaks and stands well above the tree line.
What type of volcano is Vilyuchinsky?+
Vilyuchinsky 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 Vilyuchinsky located?+
Vilyuchinsky is located in Russia, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Kuril Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 52.700° latitude, 158.280° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Vilyuchinsky?+
Vilyuchinsky 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.
