Anchorage, Alaska — A rise in earthquake activity beneath Mount Spurr, a volcano located about 80 miles northwest of Anchorage, has drawn the attention of geologists.
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The 11,100-foot (3,383-meter) stratovolcano, which last erupted in 1992, poses a significant potential threat to Alaska’s largest city. During its previous eruption, Mount Spurr spewed an ash cloud nearly 12 miles into the air, leading to canceled flights and prompting residents to wear masks.
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Increased Seismic Activity
The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) elevated Mount Spurr’s alert status from green to yellow in October due to a pronounced increase in seismic activity and ground deformation observed via satellite data. According to David Fee, an AVO scientist, the volcano has experienced approximately 1,500 small earthquakes this year, compared to an annual average of about 100.
While this uptick is noteworthy, Fee emphasized that it does not necessarily indicate an imminent eruption. “Things have been kind of this low-level unrest for a while now, and we’re, of course, watching it very closely to detect any changes,” he said.
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Monitoring Efforts
Scientists are employing a range of tools, including seismic stations, satellite data, and webcams, to monitor Mount Spurr for signs of an impending eruption. Indicators could include increased earthquake frequency, further ground deformation, the appearance of a summit lake, or the emergence of fumaroles — vents that release gases and vapors.
Mount Spurr last erupted in 1992 from its Crater Peak flank vent, located about 2 miles south of the summit. That eruption deposited about a quarter-inch of ash in Anchorage and caused the temporary closure of airports due to the risk volcanic ash poses to jet engines.
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Potential Impacts
An eruption similar to 1992’s could be highly disruptive to Anchorage, not only for residents but also for the region’s economy. Anchorage’s airport is now one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs, connecting Alaska with Asia, Memphis, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Any disruption to air traffic could have far-reaching effects.
Volcanic ash, a sharp, angular material often used as an industrial abrasive, can cause significant damage to aircraft engines and poses health risks to people exposed to it.
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Historical Activity
Mount Spurr’s Crater Peak vent also erupted in 1953, while the last known eruption from the summit itself occurred over 5,000 years ago. The volcano is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and one of 53 active volcanoes in Alaska that have erupted within the past 250 years.
As geologists continue to monitor Mount Spurr closely, they remain vigilant for any changes that could signal heightened volcanic activity.
