Yuzhny Island: A Geographic Overview of Novaya Zemlya's Southern Territory
Located far north of mainland Russia, Yuzhny Island (Russian: Южный остров, meaning 'southern island') serves as the southern anchor of the Novaya Zemlya archipelago. This vast landmass is a critical part of the Russian Arctic, characterized by its extreme climate and strategic geographic position.
Key Facts
- Location: Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia.
- Total Area: 33,275 square kilometres.
- Highest Point: Mount Pervosvotrennaya, reaching 1,291 metres.
- Primary Settlement: Belushya Guba.
- Global Rank: 41st largest island in the world.
Geography and Boundaries
Yuzhny Island is defined by its surrounding waters and its proximity to its northern counterpart. To the west lies the Barents Sea, while the Arctic Ocean borders the island to the north. The eastern coast meets the Kara Sea, and the southern edge is bounded by the Pechora Sea.
The island is separated from Severny Island (the northern island of the archipelago) by the Matochkin Strait. This narrow waterway is notable for remaining covered with ice for the majority of the year, creating a persistent frozen barrier between the two landmasses.
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Topography and Administration
The terrain of Yuzhny Island is marked by significant elevation, with its highest peak, Mount Pervosvotrennaya, rising to 1,291 metres (4,236 ft). Despite its rugged nature, the island is administratively part of the Arkhangelsk Oblast within the Russian Federation.
Human presence on the island is limited, with Belushya Guba serving as the largest settlement. The island's massive size—33,275 square kilometres—ensures its place as one of the largest islands globally, ranking 41st in total area.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Native Name | Южный остров |
| Coordinates | 72°N 54°E |
| Area | 33,275 km² (12,848 sq mi) |
| Highest Elevation | 1,291 m (Mount Pervosvotrennaya) |
| Administrative Region | Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia |
| Largest Settlement | Belushya Guba |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Yuzhny Island located?
Yuzhny Island is located in the Novaya Zemlya archipelago within the Arkhangelsk Oblast of Russia, situated north of the Russian mainland.
What separates Yuzhny Island from Severny Island?
The two islands are separated by the Matochkin Strait, a narrow body of water that is ice-covered for most of the year.
What is the highest point on Yuzhny Island?
The highest point is Mount Pervosvotrennaya, which reaches an elevation of 1,291 metres.
Which seas border Yuzhny Island?
The island is bordered by the Barents Sea to the west, the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Kara Sea to the east, and the Pechora Sea to the south.
What is the largest settlement on the island?
The largest settlement on Yuzhny Island is Belushya Guba.