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Alaska Volcano Mount Spurr Under Scrutiny Following Earthquake
A seismic event, an earthquake registering magnitude 3.7, has been recorded mere miles from Mount Spurr, a significant Alaska volcano. Scientists have issued advisories regarding the potential for an eruption at Mount Spurr within the coming weeks, heightening concerns in the region.
Earthquake Proximity to Mount Spurr Volcano
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) registered the 3.7 magnitude earthquake at 11:44 a.m. ET. The epicenter was located near Petersville, approximately 30 miles northwest of Mount Spurr.
Increased Volcanic Activity and Eruption Concerns
Mount Spurr, a towering 11,000-foot volcano, is exhibiting heightened seismic activity and ground surface displacement. These indicators suggest a possible eruption within the next few weeks to months, according to scientific assessments.
Ongoing Seismic Monitoring Near Anchorage
The USGS has detected hundreds of smaller tremors within a 30-mile radius of the volcano in recent days. Mount Spurr is situated roughly 80 miles from Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, home to nearly 300,000 residents, making the volcanic activity a subject of close observation.
Escalating Seismic Events at Mount Spurr
Seismic activity around Mount Spurr commenced in April 2024. The frequency of these events has dramatically increased, rising from an average of 30 per week to around 125 per week by early October, signaling a significant escalation in volcanic unrest.
Deep Earthquake Depth and Potential Magmatic Link
Tuesday’s earthquake originated 65 miles beneath the surface. Earthquakes at this depth are typically associated with tectonic plate movement. However, given the concurrent signs of unrest at Mount Spurr, researchers are exploring a possible connection to magma ascent from deeper within the Earth’s mantle.
Alaska Volcano Observatory Warns of Impending Eruption
Scientists at the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) have issued warnings indicating that Mount Spurr is showing increasing signs of an imminent eruption, with a potential timeframe of ‘weeks to months’.
Low Reports of Ground Shaking Despite Earthquake
Despite the 3.7 magnitude earthquake, the USGS received only two reports of felt shaking in the region. This is likely attributed to the sparsely populated nature of the area surrounding Mount Spurr.
Series of Earthquakes Near Volcano
The 3.7 magnitude event occurred approximately seven hours after a 2.5 magnitude earthquake in the same vicinity. These events were preceded by a magnitude 3.0 earthquake detected on Monday at 6:56 p.m. a few miles away. It is noted that the USGS public dashboard typically displays earthquakes of magnitude 2.5 and greater.
Gas Emissions and Elevated Alert Level
On March 7th, Mount Spurr began releasing increased levels of gas from its summit and a side vent. This vent last experienced an eruption over 30 years prior. The combination of gas emissions, enhanced seismic activity, and ground deformation has prompted scientists to raise the alert level.
Anchorage Prepares for Potential Volcanic Ashfall
Anchorage officials elevated the emergency planning level to Level 2 last week. This signifies an intensification of public communication regarding the potential threat. Public safety agencies are also initiating preparations for eruption response protocols.
Crater Peak Vent Potential Eruption Site
Matt Haney, scientist-in-charge at the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) at USGS, indicated that an eruption would most likely occur at the Crater Peak side vent. He described a potential event as ‘explosive’.
Projected Ash Cloud and Impact on Anchorage
Haney stated that a significant eruption could eject multiple plumes of ash, ascending as high as 50,000 feet into the atmosphere. This could result in a substantial ash cloud potentially affecting Anchorage and nearby communities with a layer of volcanic ash.
Historical Eruption and Potential Parallels
The last eruption of Mount Spurr occurred in 1992. Scientists suggest that a future eruption would likely resemble the characteristics of the 1992 event.
Volcanic Ash Impact of Past Eruption
Over three decades ago, the 1992 eruption of Mount Spurr blanketed the city of Anchorage with approximately one-eighth of an inch of volcanic ash.
Disruption from 1992 Ashfall Event
The ash cloud from the 1992 eruption caused midday darkness in Anchorage, forcing the city’s airport to close for 20 hours. Crater Peak subsequently erupted two more times in August and September of the same year.
Economic and Health Impacts of Past Eruptions
The Municipality of Anchorage reported nearly $2 million in damages, including office closures and cleanup expenses, resulting from the August 1992 eruption, according to NOAA. While no direct fatalities were recorded from the volcanic events themselves, two heart attacks, one fatal, were attributed to individuals shoveling volcanic ash in Anchorage.
Health Hazards of Volcanic Ash Inhalation
Inhaling volcanic ash poses respiratory health hazards. The fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating symptoms for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
Volcanic Tremor as Potential Eruption Precursor
Haney cautioned that if Mount Spurr’s activity continues to intensify, a volcanic tremor would likely be the next indicator preceding an eruption.