Scientists provided an update Thursday on the potential eruption of the Mount Spurr volcano near Alaska's largest city. They report the likelihood of an eruption has decreased slightly compared to last month. Despite this, the volcano remains at a yellow alert level because its current unrest surpasses typical non-eruptive activity.
According to a statement from the Alaska Volcano Observatory, satellite detection of sulfur dioxide gas has been absent since April 3. This lack of detection is one factor contributing to the lowered eruption probability assessment.
Scientists note bad weather conditions have prevented flights over the volcano to monitor gases since late March. Satellites also face difficulties detecting emissions due to cloud cover, potentially obscuring any venting gas.
Despite the decrease in gas detection, the observatory reports that earthquake activity near Mount Spurr continues to show elevated levels. This seismic activity indicates ongoing subsurface movement.
The inability to collect full data sets, particularly on gas emissions, introduces uncertainty into the forecast. Scientists caution that the current unrest could either continue its decline or escalate.
Authorities in Anchorage, located less than 100 miles away, continue to monitor the situation closely. City officials are preparing for potential ashfall, which was the primary impact during the 1992 eruption. Ash poses risks to air quality and can damage machinery.
Community members and businesses are also taking precautions. Reports indicate increased interest in purchasing protective masks for both people and pets.
State agencies, including the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, have issued warnings regarding the spread of disinformation online. They urge the public to disregard false reports of widespread panic, evacuations, or flight cancellations linked to Mount Spurr.
Officials recommend consulting official sources such as the Alaska Volcano Observatory, the National Weather Service, and state emergency management websites for accurate updates.
“We don’t have the full suite of data sets that, in an ideal case, we would be drawing upon to make our interpretation,” Matt Haney, the Alaska Volcano Observatory scientist-in-charge, said.
