A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake strikes near the east coast of Russia’s Kamchatka region

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake has struck near the east coast of Russia’s Kamchatka region. The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake’s epicenter was 111.7 kilometers east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, and had a depth of 39 kms, according to the USGS. The Pacific Tsunami Warning System briefly said there was a threat of a possible tsunami from the earthquake but later dropped the threat from its website. The Japan Meteorological Agency said warnings were issued to coastal areas about a slight change in sea levels, but that means the likelihood of damage is minimal.

Huge Pacific quake triggers tsunami alerts for Japan, Alaska, Hawaii and all of the US West Coast

Tsunami warnings have been issued for parts of Russia, Japan, and Alaska, as well as all of Hawaii, after a massive 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck Wednesday off Russia’s remote and sparsely populated far eastern coast.

Ksudach: A volcano shaped by explosive forces

Today's Image of the Day features Ksudach, a remarkable volcanic complex located on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula.

Fumarole mineral - Wikipedia

Fumarole mineral - Wikipedia

Ash from Russian volcano prompts Alaska flight cancellations

The ash cloud is from Shiveluch Volcano, the airline said. About 23 flights to, from and within Alaska were cancelled as of early Thursday.