Scientists in Kamchatka have observed activity at Avachinsky Volcano after a strong earthquake, according to the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

"The powerful seismic event was also noted by Avachinsky Volcano. It appeared calm throughout the day, but immediately after the earthquake, a steam and gas plume erupted up to 200 meters above the crater. This was likely the volcano’s response to the earthquakes," the researchers reported.

A series of earthquakes struck Kamchatka starting at 6:00 PM on July 20, with the strongest tremor reaching a magnitude of seven. People rushed into the streets with their documents, and shopping centers are assessing damages as goods fell from shelves and broke. A tsunami alert was issued but canceled by around 10:00 PM.

Photo kamchatinfo.com