A new mud volcano island forms in the Sea of Azov, Russia

A new mud volcano island formed in the Sea of Azov, Russia, media reports. Amazing phenomenon appeared only a few meters off the shores of the Taman Peninsula on October 25, 2015, spewing out a mixture of water, sand, dirt and gases. A local resident witnessed its formation and recorded it on her camera.

Video credit: Анастасия Миронова

This interesting natural phenomenon occurs after the hot water underneath the surface starts blending with mineral deposits. The mixture is then pushed up to the above surface where the thick mixture gets shot into air up to a couple of meters.

Although called a 'volcano' these muddy features don't spew lava, and are often used as cosmetic and therapeutic "mud baths". Mud volcanoes are common in the Krasnodar region of Russia, and local geologists often warn people to be careful about the eruptions as they can spew large clay or other debris causing damage or injuries.

About 30 volcanoes of this type have been discovered in the Temryuk district in the Krasnodar region, and all of them found over the last 50 years have proven themselves to be harmless.

Both local residents and curious visitors practice mud baths as they are held in high esteem for relieving aches and muscle pain and treating conditions such as psoriasis, arthritis, sciatica or nervous system disorders.

Featured image: Formation of a new mud volcano in the Sea of Azov, Krasnodar region, Russia, October 25, 2015. Image credit: Анастасия Миронова