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Volcanic Unrest at Mount Spurr Triggers Alert for Thousands in Alaska
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Nearly 300,000 residents in Alaska remain vigilant as Mount Spurr continues to display signs of volcanic unrest that began earlier this year. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) is closely monitoring the situation, providing regular updates on seismic activity and potential eruption risks. While the immediate threat of a major volcanic eruption is considered reduced, authorities emphasize that the possibility remains due to ongoing deep magma movement beneath Mount Spurr. Communities in and around Anchorage are advised to stay informed as the situation evolves.
Decreased Earthquake Activity Suggests Reduced Eruption Likelihood, But Alert Remains
Seismic Activity Under Mount Spurr
The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) reported on Thursday that seismic activity beneath Mount Spurr, while still elevated, has decreased. Over the past month, detectors have registered 60 to 80 earthquakes weekly, a reduction from the higher rates observed in January and February.
‘The frequency of deep earthquakes—those occurring more than 6 miles beneath sea level—has remained consistently present,’ the AVO stated. ‘This indicates that molten rock, or magma, is still active at significant depths below the volcano.’
Ground Deformation and Gas Monitoring Challenges
Surface changes to the ground, known as ground deformation and an indicator of magma movement, have slowed in recent weeks. Efforts to measure volcanic gas emissions have been hindered since March due to persistent unfavorable weather conditions, preventing necessary aerial monitoring flights.
‘The subtle shifts in monitoring data over the last month suggest a lowered chance of an eruption,’ noted the AVO. However, they cautioned that the absence of recent gas measurements complicates a complete evaluation of the volcano’s current condition.
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Eruption Still Possible Despite Reduced Surface Activity
Despite the recent calming of surface indicators, the AVO underscored that an eruption is still a viable scenario. This is due to the continued movement of magma deep underground.
Potential Ashfall Impact on Anchorage
Historical Eruptions and Ash Cloud Reach
While Anchorage is situated outside the direct danger zone of Mount Spurr, past eruptions in 1953 and 1992 resulted in ash clouds extending over the city. These events deposited approximately a quarter-inch of ash across Anchorage.
Warning of Potential Widespread Ashfall
The AVO has warned that a similar eruption today could lead to extensive ashfall throughout the region, potentially impacting Anchorage and surrounding areas.
Signs of Volcanic Unrest and Historical Context
Key Indicators of Potential Eruption
Earlier this year, Mount Spurr exhibited three primary signs often associated with an impending eruption:
- Increased seismic activity
- Swelling of the volcano’s surface
- Melting of snow and ice near the summit
Ground Deformation Fluctuations
Although ground deformation has significantly decreased, the AVO pointed out that a similar slowdown occurred in Fall 2024 before a subsequent increase.
‘Collapse of snow and ice into the summit crater lake, formed during this period of unrest, is ongoing, along with steam venting from fumaroles within and around the summit crater,’ Thursday’s update detailed.
‘There have been no notable alterations to the fumaroles within Crater Peak in the past month.’
Earthquake Rate Variations and Eruption Precedents
Fluctuations in earthquake rates have been observed in previous periods of volcanic unrest, including prior to the 2009 eruption of Redoubt Volcano.
Redoubt Volcano, located on the west side of Cook Inlet, experienced a decrease in seismic activity in September 2008, followed by a resurgence just three days before its eruption on March 23, 2009.
‘We cannot predict a precise timeframe for a potential eruption, should one occur,’ the AVO stated.
‘We anticipate observing further changes in monitoring data leading up to an eruption, as magma ascends closer to the surface.’
Hazards and Community Preparedness
Low Likelihood of Eruption Without Warning, but Hazards Exist
While the probability of an eruption without additional warning signs is currently considered low, Mount Spurr still presents hazards for individuals engaging in recreational activities on the volcano.
Elevated Gas Levels
These hazards are primarily due to elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide in low-lying areas around or downwind from gas vents. Affected areas include the craters atop Crater Peak and Spurr summit. The AVO clarified that these elevated gas levels are not present in populated communities.
Potential Explosive Eruption at Crater Peak
Matt Haney, scientist-in-charge at the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) at US Geological Survey (USGS), indicated to DailyMail.com that the most probable eruption site would be the Crater Peak side vent, and that ‘it would be explosive.’
Such an event could eject multiple ash plumes reaching altitudes of up to 50,000 feet, according to Haney.
Each explosive ash-producing phase could last three to four hours, and the resulting ash cloud has the potential to cover Anchorage and neighboring communities with a substantial layer of volcanic dust.
Mudslide and Avalanche Risks
An eruption could also trigger destructive mudslides and avalanches of volcanic debris flowing down the volcano’s slopes at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour. ‘Fortunately, no communities are located within the radius of these potential impacts,’ Haney noted.
Local Residents Prepare for Potential Ashfall
Community Response and Stockpiling Supplies
With memories of the 1992 eruption still present, local residents are actively preparing for potential ashfall. They are purchasing supplies ranging from tape for sealing windows and doors to goggles, earplugs, N95 masks, and essential provisions like food and water.
Resident Testimonials on Preparedness
Cloe Turner, an Eagle River resident, reported spending $415 at Costco to stock up on groceries, batteries, protective equipment, and pet food.
‘We might be unable to work, and stores might be closed,’ she explained. ‘The last time an event like this occurred, the city was covered in ash for an entire month.’
Social Media and Public Awareness
TikTok user Lia shared her family’s preparations for a potential eruption, emphasizing the importance of being ready for a volcanic event.
‘Mount Spurr is possibly going to erupt, and I want to ensure we are prepared because we have never experienced a volcanic eruption before,’ she stated.
Protective Measures and Supplies Acquired
Lia detailed her purchases of respirators, goggles, and air filters for her vehicle to protect against potential ashfall in the city.
She opted for swim goggles from Amazon, noting the importance of a tight fit to prevent ash entry. Goggles were also purchased for her dog, a measure taken by many pet owners in Anchorage.
While Lia found her doors and windows sufficiently sealed, other residents are stockpiling duct tape to seal window sills and door openings as a precaution against ash infiltration and other hazards.
Waiting and Uncertainty
‘So now we just wait for it to erupt and see how it unfolds,’ Lia said in her TikTok video, referencing expert predictions of approximately a quarter-inch of ash potentially blanketing Anchorage.