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Alaska’s Mount Spurr Volcano Exhibiting Increased Unrest with Summit Steaming
A substantial volcano in Alaska, Mount Spurr, is currently emitting steam from its summit crater, indicating increasing signs of volcanic unrest. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) is closely monitoring the 11,000-foot volcano, situated approximately 81 miles from Anchorage, due to heightened activity suggesting a potential eruption. Recent webcam images captured over the weekend confirm continued steaming, a typical characteristic of Mount Spurr’s current state. Scientists are vigilantly tracking seismic activity and other indicators to assess the evolving situation at this Alaska volcano.
Elevated Seismic Activity and Steaming Observed at Mount Spurr
According to the latest update from the Alaska Volcano Observatory, webcam footage revealed ‘persistent steaming from the summit crater’ over the weekend. This steaming is considered ‘typical for Mount Spurr during this period of heightened unrest,’ the AVO statement explained. Furthermore, the AVO reported that ‘seismicity remains elevated,’ with earthquake swarms detected beneath Mount Spurr in the past day. This seismic activity is attributed to magma ascent towards the surface, generating stress and fractures within the surrounding rock.
Potential for Explosive Eruption
Matt Haney, scientist-in-charge at the AVO, previously stated that if Mount Spurr were to erupt, the event would likely be explosive. Such an eruption could eject multiple plumes of volcanic ash, potentially reaching altitudes of 50,000 feet. These ash plumes pose a threat to Anchorage, potentially blanketing the city, home to nearly 300,000 residents, in a layer of volcanic dust.
Eruption Likelihood and Ongoing Monitoring
While the AVO’s Friday update suggested a decreased probability of an immediate eruption based on monitoring data, Sunday’s announcement did not reiterate this reduced threat level. Despite a possible decline in surface activity, the AVO emphasizes that an eruption remains a possibility due to the continued movement of magma deep beneath the surface. Although the ongoing unrest at Mount Spurr, now spanning a year, could indicate a future eruption, scientists clarify that the recent steaming is not necessarily a sign of imminent eruption in the immediate days.
Indicators of Volcanic Unrest
The Alaska Volcano Observatory clarifies that while Mount Spurr displays ongoing signs of unrest, it doesn’t definitively indicate an impending eruption. Other indicators of unrest, including ground deformation, earthquakes, and melting snow near the summit, are consistent with volcano activity but are not conclusive evidence of an eruption within days.
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Heightened Activity Since April 2024
Mount Spurr’s intensified volcanic activity began in April 2024. In October, earthquake frequency near the volcano surged from an average of 30 weekly to 125 per week. Scientists are employing a range of monitoring tools, including local seismic, infrasound, webcam, and GNSS stations, supplemented by regional infrasound, lightning networks, and satellite data, as detailed in the AVO’s Sunday report.
Volcanic Tremor as a Potential Eruption Precursor
According to Haney, if Mount Spurr’s activity escalates, the next sign of an impending eruption would likely be a volcanic tremor. This differs from the recent shallow earthquakes experienced at the volcano. A volcanic tremor is characterized by sustained shaking, lasting from minutes to days, signifying magma rising towards the surface and increasing eruption likelihood.
Comparison to the 1992 Eruption
The last eruption of Mount Spurr occurred in June 1992. Volcanic tremors preceded that eruption by approximately three weeks. Haney suggests that a future eruption at Mount Spurr could resemble the 1992 event, which originated from Crater Peak, a side vent of the volcano.
Impact of a Potential Ashfall on Anchorage
The 1992 eruption’s ash cloud darkened skies midday, forcing the closure of Anchorage airports and depositing an eighth of an inch of ash across the city. Crater Peak experienced 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 from the August 1992 eruption, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Health and Safety Concerns
While the 1992 eruptions caused no direct fatalities, two heart attacks, one fatal, were linked to ash shoveling in Anchorage. Inhaling volcanic ash poses health risks, as fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
Mudslide and Avalanche Risks
A Mount Spurr eruption could also trigger destructive mudslides and avalanches of volcanic debris, potentially traveling down the volcano’s flanks at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour. However, Haney noted that these hazards would not directly affect any communities due to the area’s remote location.
Anchorage Emergency Planning and Resident Preparedness
In response to the heightened volcanic activity, Anchorage officials elevated the emergency planning level to Level 2 on March 20th. This level signifies increased public communication about the potential threat, and public safety agencies preparing for eruption response protocols. Residents are proactively preparing for a possible eruption, stocking up on essential supplies like N95 masks, latex gloves, water, and protective gear, including goggles and respirators for pets.
Community Response and Pet Safety
Anchorage residents are actively taking precautions, as exemplified by TikTok user Angela Łot’oydaatlno Gonzalez, who shared a video showcasing her dogs wearing protective goggles. Similarly, Anchorage residents Alliana Salanguit and Jesslin Wooliver purchased protective gear for their dog, Iroh, after scientists highlighted the potential for a Mount Spurr eruption. Anchorage officials have issued safety guidelines for pet owners, recommending keeping animals indoors, storing two weeks’ worth of pet food and medication, and cleaning ash from fur if pets venture outside.