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Alaska's Mount Spurr Volcano Shows Heightened Eruption Risk

Scientists report increased seismic activity, gas emissions, and ground deformation, signaling a potential eruption in the coming weeks or months.

  • Mount Spurr, located 75 miles west of Anchorage, is experiencing signs of volcanic unrest, including elevated gas emissions and persistent earthquakes.
  • Recent overflights detected sulfur dioxide levels nine times higher than in December, alongside significant carbon dioxide emissions, indicating magma movement beneath the surface.
  • Ground deformation and the appearance of a summit lake suggest accumulating magma, with Crater Peak identified as the most likely eruption site based on historical activity.
  • Previous eruptions from Crater Peak in 1953 and 1992 caused ash clouds, minor ashfall in south-central Alaska, and disruptions to air travel, highlighting potential impacts of a future eruption.
  • While an eruption is not imminent, scientists are closely monitoring for stronger volcanic tremors or other warning signs that could precede an explosive event.
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