The paper presents the results of integrated geophysical observations of the Ebeko Volcano’s activity in late 2018 and early 2019. The instrument complex for observation was located at the Severo-Kurilsk seismic station at a distance of 7.2 km far from the volcanic crater. Three types of response in the vertical component of the electric field of the atmosphere have been distinguished during the drift of eruptive clouds from the Ebeko Volcano’s explosions, which gives evidence for various mechanisms of their occurrence. The registration of infrasonic acoustic signals in the near zone made it possible to estimate the trinitrotoluene equivalent for the strongest explosions, which was calculated to be about 100 kg of trinitrotoluene. The authors have revealed certain regularities in the dynamics of the volumetric activity of radon, associated with variations in meteorological values and hydrological features of the registration point. A long period of its activity and the proximity of the observation point to the crater give reason to suggest Ebeko Volcano to be a natural laboratory for studying the mechanisms of eruptions.

Growth of explosive activity of Ebeko volcano in April–June 2020

Based on visual and satellite data, the authors provide information that characterizes the volcanic activity in the Kuril Islands in 2018. Ebeko (Paramushir Island, the Northern Kurile Islands) and Sarychev Peak (Matua Island, the Central Kurile Islands) volcanoes were active in the Kuril Islands. Ebeko Volcano produced a weak (to moderate) explosive eruption in form of steam and ash-gas emissions (about 800 emissions at a height from 2 to 5.5 km). Sarychev Peak activity was characterized by a weak (to moderate) explosions (over the period from September till October the volcano produced at least 10 emissions that reached a height of 2 to 4.5 km). Due to the relatively low emission height and low ash concentration, the activity on Ebeko and Sarychev Peak in 2018 did not pose a serious threat to the international air routes, but could have a certain impact on the local airlines.