Russian volcanoes ready to blow
Published 02 November, 2007, 00:09
Russian authorities are warning that some of the country’s most powerful volcanoes, found on the Kamchatka peninsula in the country’s far east, may be about to roar back to life.
This autumn volcanologists have explored the area and gathered ash samples, to try and determine any significant movements. Even minor changes in its chemical composition would help to forecast possible eruptions.
One of the most dynamic volcanoes in Kamchatka – Karymsky – is showing off its power.
“The crater of the Karymsky volcano is getting wider. A couple of years ago it was about 150 meters in diameter. At present it’s one of the largest craters at about 300 meters in diameter!” said volcanologist Aleksey Ozerov.
As the youngest volcano in Kamchatka, Karymsky is very unpredictable.
To catch every sudden change in the volcano's mood, scientists have set up special seismic centres. Every 30 seconds they track the movements of the crust.
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