Mega volcano is set to EXPLODE as dozens of earthquakes destabilize its center… with bustling city in its path

Mount Spurr Volcano in Alaska Under Scrutiny as Seismic Activity Intensifies

Anchorage, Alaska – Elevated seismic activity near Mount Spurr, a towering 11,000-foot volcano in Alaska, has prompted heightened vigilance from experts who suggest the volcano may be approaching a potential eruption. Dozens of minor earthquakes have been recorded in the vicinity of Mount Spurr, raising concerns about volcanic unrest.

Increased Earthquake Activity Sparks Eruption Concerns

The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) reported detecting 55 earthquakes over the past week, including several earthquake ‘swarms,’ characterized by rapid successions of tremors. Authorities indicate that this heightened seismic activity signals magma ascension beneath Mount Spurr. The rising magma induces stress and fracturing in the surrounding rock, resulting in the observed earthquakes.

Anchorage Residents Advised to Prepare for Potential Ashfall

Emergency protocols are being implemented for Anchorage’s over 300,000 residents. Officials are advising citizens to stock up on essential provisions, including food, infant supplies, and pet necessities. A potential eruption could disrupt supply chains, leading to delivery delays.

In anticipation of possible ashfall, Anchorage residents have initiated a surge in purchasing essential supplies like N95 masks, water containers, and protective equipment.

Explosive Eruption Potential

Matt Haney, the scientist-in-charge at the AVO, described the potential eruption as “explosive,” stating that it could expel multiple ash plumes reaching altitudes of up to 50,000 feet. Each explosive event capable of producing ash could persist for three to four hours, potentially enveloping Anchorage and neighboring communities in a substantial ash cloud.

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Volcanic Ash Hazards

While Anchorage is situated outside the immediate impact zone, substantial ash clouds are expected to blanket the city. Volcanic ash poses health risks, including irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma, other lung ailments, or severe heart conditions face a greater risk of more serious health complications from ash exposure.

Alaska Volcano Observatory Continues Close Monitoring

The AVO communicated on Friday that “Volcanic unrest persists at Mount Spurr volcano, marked by ongoing earthquake activity.” They further elaborated, “Seismicity remains elevated, with approximately 55 earthquakes recorded over the past week. While comparable to the preceding week, earthquake frequencies have exhibited variability during this period of unrest.”

The AVO also noted a recent pause in ground deformation, which refers to the swelling or shifting of the volcano’s surface. However, they cautioned that similar pauses occurred previously in November and December before resuming.

Historical Seismic Trends at Mount Spurr

Seismic activity in the Mount Spurr region commenced in April 2024. The rate of seismic events escalated from an average of 30 per week to approximately 125 per week in early October, and this elevated rate has persisted.

Despite the recent earthquakes being minor, the earthquake swarms indicate increasing pressure, crack propagation, and magma movement beneath the surface.

Gas Emissions and Monitoring Challenges

Last month, Mount Spurr exhibited elevated levels of gas release from its summit crater and a secondary vent. This outgassing can signify subterranean changes within the volcano, such as magma heating subsurface water reservoirs.

Although satellite data from the past week showed no sulfur dioxide emissions, the AVO clarified that “cloudy conditions obscured observation of the volcano for most of the week.”

“AVO remains diligently monitoring Mount Spurr activity for indicators suggesting the volcano is progressing towards an eruption,” the observatory stated.

Mount Spurr Eruption History

While Mount Spurr’s primary summit crater has remained dormant for roughly 5,000 years, its secondary vent, known as Crater Peak, last erupted 30 years ago.

1992 Eruption: A Case Study

The 1992 eruption of Crater Peak resulted in Anchorage being blanketed by approximately one-eighth of an inch of volcanic ash. The skies darkened at midday, and the city’s airport was compelled to cease operations for 20 hours.

Haney suggests that a future eruption of Mount Spurr is most probable from this side vent and could resemble the 1992 event.

Timeline of Recent Warnings and Preparations

In February, scientists issued warnings indicating that Mount Spurr was likely to erupt within the coming weeks or months.

On March 20, Anchorage officials elevated the emergency planning level to Level 2. This escalation entails enhanced public communication regarding the potential threat and preparations by public safety agencies to implement eruption response protocols.

Pet Safety Measures Advised in Anchorage

The city has also disseminated safety recommendations for pet owners in anticipation of a possible eruption.

Authorities have advised residents to keep pets indoors whenever possible, maintain a two-week reserve of pet food and medications, and ensure ash is brushed or washed from pets’ fur after outdoor exposure.

Residents Taking Precautions Seriously

Anchorage residents are demonstrably heeding these warnings and acquiring necessary protective gear for themselves and their animal companions.

TikTok user Angela Łot’oydaatlno Gonzalez, in a recent video, stated, “We’re getting ready for the volcanic eruption,” adding, “Check out the dogs.” Gonzalez, wearing protective goggles herself, showcased her two dogs similarly equipped with eyewear. “They’re not happy with the goggles,” Gonzalez commented. “We have to get them ear protection next, and something to cover their bodies.”

Gonzalez also displayed the array of supplies she has accumulated over recent weeks to prepare for a Mount Spurr eruption. These include protective masks, dog booties, sealing tape for windows and doors, and water jugs.

Anchorage residents Alliana Salanguit and Jesslin Wooliver informed NPR about purchasing protective gear for their dog, Iroh, immediately after scientists announced the potential Mount Spurr eruption.

“I searched ‘pink, dog goggles, small,’ and it was the top result,” Salanguit remarked about Iroh’s heart-shaped goggles. “Aren’t they darling?”

Pet Store Reports High Demand for Protective Gear

AK Bark, an Anchorage-based pet store, is selling protective eyewear for dogs. Owner Mark Robokoff told NPR that they sold over 500 pairs in March. He further noted that a shipment of dog respirators is en route to the store, with 1,800 units already pre-sold.