A series of small tremors shaking Mount Spurr in Alaska indicate that the volcano may soon erupt.
Anchorage residents are preparing for possible disruptions and ash fall by stocking up on essential items and gear to protect themselves and their pets, as the Daily Mail reports.
The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) detected 55 earthquakes in the area surrounding Mount Spurr over the past week. The AVO, which monitors volcanic activity closely, reported that these earthquakes include multiple swarms, suggesting that magma is rising and causing significant stress on the rock formations within the volcano. This seismic activity, they warn, could lead to a potential eruption, similar to what was seen in 1992 when Crater Peak last erupted.
Given the results of past eruptions, particularly the 1992 event, the residents of Anchorage, a bustling city not directly in the path but still vulnerable, are taking precautionary measures. The emergency plans have been activated for Anchorage's 300,000 residents. Many are stocking up on N95 masks, water containers, and other protective gear to guard against volcanic ash clouds that could engulf the city.
Matt Haney, a scientist-in-charge at the AVO, confirmed that an eruption of Mount Spurr would likely be explosive. He indicated that multiple plumes of ash could rise as high as 50,000 feet into the atmosphere. These massive clouds could extend beyond the immediate vicinity of the volcano, impacting health, especially for individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions, even though Anchorage lies outside the direct impact zone.
Experts have reported modifying their monitoring techniques to adapt to circumstances such as recent cloudy weather preventing satellite capture of sulfur dioxide emissions. Nevertheless, the ground deformation around Mount Spurr has paused momentarily, a phenomenon observed in previous unrest periods.
The elevated seismic activity began in April 2024 and surged by October that year. By February, experts had warned that an eruption could be imminent within weeks or months. On March 20, Anchorage officials advanced their emergency measures to Level 2, focusing on public communication and safety protocols to prepare for potential evacuations and disruptions.
Adding to the precautionary measures, pet owners have been advised to keep animals indoors as much as possible and to wash their fur clean of ash. Social media has been active with residents sharing tips; for instance, Angela Łot'oydaatlno Gonzalez used TikTok to share how her family was gearing up for the eruption while ensuring their dogs were safe, even though the pets were not keen on the new goggles.
Other residents, like Alliana Salanguit, showed the lighter side as well, mentioning how she searched for stylish pink goggles for her small dog, bringing a sense of community and humor amid the precautionary urgency. Pet store AK Bark observed a significant increase in demand for protective eyewear and respirators for pets.
Despite these preparations, the risk remains high as notable seismic activity continues. According to an AVO statement, seismicity remains elevated with around 55 earthquakes recorded over the last week. Although such activity has varied at times, the underlying threat persists.
Elevated gas emissions were observed at the volcano's summit crater and side vent last month. These signs are consistent with underground magma movements, demonstrating that Mount Spurr is under significant stress and monitoring is ongoing. However, only the limited visibility has prevented a more comprehensive assessment of sulfur dioxide emissions via satellite.
Past reports have indicated that Mount Spurr's summit crater has been dormant for around 5,000 years, yet Crater Peak's history includes a notably disruptive eruption in 1992. Experts currently anticipate that any future eruption would occur at Crater Peak, mirroring the historical incident.
As preparations continue, Anchorage remains alert to potential impacts on air traffic and everyday life. The Alaskan community is advised to stay informed and adhere to official guidelines, ensuring safety remains the utmost priority amid the natural upheaval of their surroundings.
