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Alaska Residents Prepare for Potential Mount Spurr Volcanic Eruption Near Anchorage
Residents of Anchorage, Alaska’s most populous city, are preparing as scientists warn of a possible volcanic eruption from Mount Spurr within weeks. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) is closely monitoring increased seismic activity at the volcano, located approximately 81 miles from Anchorage, home to nearly 300,000 individuals. Authorities are urging preparedness for potential ashfall resulting from the Mount Spurr volcano.
Mount Spurr’s Potential for Explosive Eruption
Mount Spurr, a towering 11,000-foot volcano, is under scrutiny due to escalating unrest. According to Matt Haney, scientist-in-charge at the AVO, a Mount Spurr eruption is anticipated to be ‘explosive.’ Such an event could expel multiple ash plumes reaching altitudes of up to 50,000 feet.
Each significant ash-producing episode could persist for three to four hours, potentially enveloping Anchorage and neighboring communities in substantial ash clouds. Volcanic ash poses health hazards, particularly respiratory issues.
Health Risks of Volcanic Ash
Volcanic ash is known to cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. The International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (IVHHN) cautions that individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma, lung disease, and severe heart problems are at higher risk of experiencing more serious health complications due to volcanic ash inhalation.
Anchorage Community Prepares for Ashfall
In response to the potential volcanic threat, Anchorage residents are proactively stockpiling essential supplies. N95 masks, latex gloves, and water jugs are among the items being acquired to mitigate the impact of ashfall. Protective eyewear, gas masks, and even booties for dogs are also being secured.
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TikTok user Angela Łot’oydaatlno Gonzalez shared her preparations in a recent video, stating, ‘We’re getting ready for the volcanic eruption.’ Her video showcased her dogs wearing goggles, emphasizing the community’s concern for pet safety. Gonzalez added, ‘They’re not happy with the goggles. We have to get them ear protection next, and something to cover their bodies.’
Community Initiatives and Pet Preparedness
Gonzalez is not alone in her proactive approach. Alliana Salanguit and Jesslin Wooliver, fellow Anchorage residents, informed NPR about purchasing protective gear for their dog, Iroh, immediately following the eruption warnings. Salanguit humorously recounted her search for ‘pink, dog goggles, small,’ highlighting community-wide efforts to protect pets.
AK Bark, a local pet supply store in Anchorage, reported significant sales of pet protective gear. Owner Mark Robokoff told NPR that over 500 pairs of dog goggles were sold in March alone. A shipment of dog respirators is also anticipated, with 1,800 units already pre-sold, indicating high demand for pet-related safety measures.
Locals are sharing photos of their pets equipped with protective gear on AK Bark’s Facebook page, further illustrating community preparedness.
Official Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Anchorage officials elevated the emergency planning level to Level 2 on March 20. This escalation signifies increased public communication regarding the volcanic threat and activates public safety agencies to prepare for eruption response protocols. The city has issued specific safety guidelines for pet owners:
- Keep animals indoors as much as possible.
- Maintain a two-week supply of pet food and medications.
- Brush or wash ash from pet fur if outdoor exposure is necessary.
Increased Volcanic Activity at Mount Spurr
Mount Spurr has exhibited heightened seismic activity, ground deformation, and gas emissions over the past year, all indicative of potential volcanic unrest. Seismic activity near Mount Spurr commenced in April 2024, with earthquake frequency rising from an average of 30 per week to 125 per week by October.
The Alaska Volcano Observatory’s recent update confirmed ongoing unrest: ‘Seismicity remains elevated with occasional small, shallow volcanic earthquakes detected beneath the volcano.’ The AVO continues diligent monitoring for signals suggesting an imminent eruption.
Recent Seismic Events and Eruption Timeline
The USGS has recorded hundreds of minor tremors within a 30-mile radius of Mount Spurr since the start of the month. On April 2, a magnitude 3.7 earthquake occurred near Petersville, approximately 30 miles northwest of Mount Spurr. While this deeper quake (65 miles below the surface) might suggest tectonic origins, its proximity to Mount Spurr and coinciding with other unrest indicators raise concerns about possible magma movement.
Scientists estimate that a Mount Spurr eruption could occur within the coming weeks or months. Elevated gas emissions from the summit crater and a side vent, detected since March 7, further contribute to the alert status.
While Mount Spurr’s summit crater has remained dormant for an estimated 5,000 years, Crater Peak, a side vent, last erupted in 1992. Experts believe that if an eruption occurs, it is most likely to originate from this side vent, resembling the 1992 event.
Impact of Past Eruptions
The 1992 eruption of Crater Peak resulted in Anchorage being blanketed with approximately an eighth of an inch of ash. Daylight hours were diminished due to a massive ash cloud obscuring the sun, and Anchorage’s airport experienced a 20-hour shutdown. Crater Peak experienced two subsequent eruptions in August and September of the same year.
The Municipality of Anchorage reported nearly $2 million in damages, office disruptions, and cleanup expenses stemming from the August eruption. Although no direct fatalities occurred, two heart attacks, one fatal, were linked to ashfall cleanup efforts.
Warning Signs of Imminent Eruption
The Alaska Volcano Observatory is closely watching Mount Spurr. Should volcanic activity intensify, Matt Haney warned that a volcanic tremor would likely serve as the next indication of an impending eruption.