Several volcanoes in the United States are exhibiting signs of increased activity, prompting scientists to closely monitor these developments due to the potential for eruptions.
Notably, Alaska’s Mount Spurr and Great Sitkin, as well as Hawaii’s Kīlauea, have shown significant unrest, raising concerns about possible volcanic events in the near future.
Mount Spurr: Heightened Activity Near Anchorage
Mount Spurr, a stratovolcano located approximately 75 miles west of Anchorage, Alaska, has experienced a notable uptick in seismic activity over the past ten months.
The frequency of earthquakes beneath the volcano has increased significantly, and overflights have detected elevated volcanic gas emissions and reactivated gas vents, suggesting new magma intrusions beneath the surface.
These indicators have led scientists to estimate a heightened chance of an eruption occurring within the next few weeks or months.
Mount Spurr’s eruption history includes significant events in 1953 and 1992, both of which produced substantial ash clouds that affected air travel and deposited ash across south-central Alaska.
Given its proximity to Anchorage and major air routes, an eruption could have considerable impacts on local communities and aviation. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) continues to monitor the volcano for further signs of escalating activity and advises residents and travelers to stay informed through official channels.
Great Sitkin: Ongoing Eruption and Elevated Alert Levels
Great Sitkin Volcano, situated in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, has been experiencing an ongoing eruption since May 2021. The eruption began with a single explosive event, followed by continuous lava effusion at the summit crater.
The AVO has maintained an elevated alert level for Great Sitkin, reflecting the persistent volcanic activity.
The primary hazards associated with Great Sitkin’s activity include lava flows and potential ash emissions, which could affect nearby communities and air travel routes.
The AVO continues to monitor the volcano closely, utilizing seismic sensors, satellite data, and web cameras to detect any changes in activity. Residents and travelers in the region are advised to stay updated through official communications from the AVO.
Kīlauea: Recent Eruptions and Ongoing Unrest
Kīlauea, located on Hawaii’s Big Island, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
The volcano has experienced multiple eruptive episodes in recent years, with the most recent eruption commencing on December 23, 2024, within the Halemaʻumaʻu crater.
This eruption has been characterized by episodic lava fountains, some reaching significant heights.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) has been closely monitoring Kīlauea’s activity, noting that the summit magma reservoir is pressurizing, which could lead to further eruptive episodes.
While the current activity has been confined to the summit area within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the potential for lava flows and volcanic gas emissions poses risks to park visitors and nearby communities.
The HVO advises the public to stay informed through official updates and to heed any safety advisories issued by local authorities.
Monitoring and Preparedness
The increased activity at Mount Spurr, Great Sitkin, and Kīlauea underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and preparedness for volcanic events.
Volcanic activity can escalate rapidly, and timely warnings are crucial for ensuring public safety.
Residents and travelers in affected areas should stay informed through official channels, such as the AVO and HVO, and adhere to any advisories or evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
Understanding the signs of volcanic unrest, including increased seismic activity, ground deformation, and gas emissions, is essential for early detection and warning.
Continued investment in volcanic monitoring and research is vital for enhancing predictive capabilities and ensuring the safety of communities near active volcanoes.
Impact of Volcanic Eruptions on Air Travel
Volcanic eruptions, even small ones, can have a massive impact on air travel. Ash clouds released during an eruption can rise thousands of feet into the atmosphere, posing a serious threat to aircraft.
Volcanic ash is highly abrasive and can damage jet engines, pit windshields, and contaminate ventilation systems.
In 2010, the eruption of Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano grounded over 100,000 flights globally. In the U.S., volcanoes like Mount Spurr and Great Sitkin are located under busy air corridors used by transpacific flights, making continuous monitoring essential for aviation safety.
How Volcanologists Predict Eruptions
Forecasting volcanic eruptions is a complex process that combines various scientific tools and techniques. Seismographs detect underground earthquakes that often precede eruptions.
Ground deformation is monitored using GPS and satellite radar to identify swelling or shifting of the volcano’s surface. Gas emission sensors measure increases in sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and other volcanic gases.
Visual surveillance through webcams and aerial drones adds real-time context. By analyzing these data points together, volcanologists can often provide early warnings days or even weeks in advance.
Historical U.S. Eruptions and Lessons Learned
The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington remains the most significant volcanic event in U.S. history. It caused 57 deaths and over $1 billion in damages.
The eruption highlighted the need for better monitoring and faster evacuation protocols. In 2009, Alaska’s Mount Redoubt erupted and sent ash clouds as high as 60,000 feet, affecting air travel and local communities.
These events helped build the modern volcano observatory network and spurred advancements in public communication during crises.
Volcano Emergency Preparedness for Residents
Preparedness is crucial for communities near active volcanoes. Residents are encouraged to maintain emergency supply kits that include water, food, dust masks, goggles, flashlights, and radios.
Knowing evacuation routes and staying updated through local emergency management services can save lives. Homeowners should also consider sealing windows and doors to minimize ash infiltration.
During eruptions, it’s vital to avoid driving in ashfall and to follow official guidance at all times. Community preparedness drills and school education programs can also significantly enhance safety during a volcanic crisis.
Sources:
- https://www.uniladtech.com/science/news/scientists-on-high-alert-as-threat-levels-for-three-us-volcanos-rise-710508-20250217
- https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/national-news/an-eruption-is-possible-at-alaskas-mount-spurr-what-we-know-about-the-volcano
- https://people.com/scientists-warn-volcano-near-anchorage-alaska-could-erupt-next-few-weeks-months-11696100