Massive Volcanic Eruption Blankets Russian Villages in Ash

Shiveluch, one of Kamchatka's most active volcanoes, erupted on Tuesday, spewing ash clouds up to 65,600 feet into the sky and covering broad areas with ash. The ash cloud extended more than 300 miles northwest and engulfed several villages in grey volcanic dust. Officials closed the skies over the area to aircraft, and local authorities advised residents to stay indoors and shut schools in several affected communities. No mass evacuation was needed, but some residents with health issues could be temporarily evacuated.