Researchers have uncovered new details about a powerful and mysterious volcanic eruption that occurred in 1831 on Simushir Island, part of Russia’s Kuril Islands chain. The eruption was one of the largest in recorded history, but its source remained unknown for nearly two centuries. By analyzing trace evidence from the eruption, scientists have now identified the culprit as Zavaritski Caldera, a massive volcanic crater on Simushir. The eruption ejected an estimated 5.5 cubic kilometers of material and triggered tsunamis that affected areas as far away as the Pacific coast of Russia and Japan. The findings shed light on the region’s volcanic hazards and could help improve risk assessment and preparedness efforts for future eruptions in the Kuril Islands.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/03/science/mystery-volcano-1831-eruption-simushir/index.html