About Komarov
Komarov is a stratovolcano rising to 2,065 meters (6,775 feet) in Russia's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Its last known eruption was in 950 CE. The volcano has produced 2 recorded eruptions.
Geography & Climate
Komarov is located in Russia, within the Eastern Kamchatka Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 55.03° N, 160.72° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a subarctic climate zone. At 2,065 meters above sea level, Komarov 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
Komarov 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 Komarov, 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
Komarov has 2 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 450 CE to 950 CE. These eruptions span roughly 500 years of volcanic history.
GVP Reference Summary
Komarov volcano is a complex structure along the Gamchen ridge. The summit area includes two irregular craters ~300m in diameter. Lengthy Holocene lava flows extend to the east and west. Growth began about 1,500 years ago following cessation of activity at Vysoky volcano. No reported eruptions are known, but the summit region has undergone extensive hydrothermal alteration, and fumarolic areas occur there and on the northern and southern flanks.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
2 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 950 | — | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 450 | 0 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Komarov
Is Komarov an active volcano?+
Komarov is not currently classified as active. Its activity evidence is listed as "Eruption Dated." The last known eruption was in 950 CE. However, no volcano is ever considered permanently extinct.
When did Komarov last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Komarov occurred in 950 CE. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Komarov has 2 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Komarov?+
Komarov has a summit elevation of 2,065 meters (6,775 feet) above sea level. At 2,065 meters, it is comparable in height to many significant mountain peaks and stands well above the tree line.
What type of volcano is Komarov?+
Komarov 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 Komarov located?+
Komarov is located in Russia, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Eastern Kamchatka Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 55.033° latitude, 160.725° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Komarov?+
Komarov 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.
