Mount Spurr, a towering volcano just 80 miles west of Anchorage, Alaska, is showing alarming signs of an impending eruption. Scientists from the Alaska Volcano Observatory and the U.S. Geological Survey warn that the mountain’s increasing seismic activity, gas emissions, and ground deformation suggest a major eruption could happen within weeks or months.
Since April 2024, more than 3,400 earthquakes have rattled the region beneath Mount Spurr. Recent aerial surveys detected newly active gas vents and a sharp rise in volcanic gas emissions. These changes indicate that magma is moving beneath the surface, increasing the likelihood of an eruption. Last month, experts estimated a 50% chance of eruption, but now they say the risk is even higher.
If Mount Spurr erupts, it would be its first major explosion since 1992, when ash clouds forced the shutdown of Anchorage’s airport for 20 hours. An eruption could have serious consequences, including disruptive ash clouds that could affect air travel across Alaska and even reach Canada. Toxic ashfall may blanket Anchorage and nearby towns, harming health and damaging buildings, cars, and electronics. The mountain could also produce dangerous pyroclastic flows and volcanic mudflows that threaten nearby rivers and valleys.
The biggest concern is where the eruption occurs. Past explosions came from Crater Peak, a side vent, but if the main summit erupts, it could be far more powerful – something not seen in over 5,000 years. With the threat growing, Anchorage has upgraded its emergency response to Level 2. Officials are urging residents to stay informed through the Volcano Notification Service, prepare emergency kits with masks and supplies, and avoid travel near Mount Spurr.
Mount Spurr remains a popular hiking and sightseeing destination, but authorities are advising extreme caution. Visitors should monitor updates closely and follow all restrictions, as ash, toxic gases and sudden eruptions pose serious risks. Scientists continue monitoring the volcano around the clock, tracking earthquakes, gas levels and ground shifts. While they can’t predict the exact timing of an eruption, their warning is clear – Alaska needs to be ready. For now, all eyes remain on the restless giant as it rumbles toward a possible historic eruption.
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