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An update published Friday from the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) on March 28 revealed the state’s Mount Spurr volcano may be poised to erupt in the coming weeks or months.
“Robust steaming was observed from the summit yesterday due to favorable atmospheric and viewing conditions,” AVO wrote in their update and accompanying statement. “No detectable change in earthquake activity or gas emissions accompanied the steam emissions.” This means an eruption is “likely, but not certain, to occur in the next few weeks or months.”
The volcano is situated roughly 80 miles west of Anchorage, and stands around 11,070 feet tall, according to LiveScience. It is the highest peak in the Aleutian Range, consisting of a central summit and a large side vent, where most historical eruptions have occurred.
What Happens If Mount Spurr Erupts?
The largest hazard in the event of an eruption is ash clouds, which could have a drastic impact on aviation. Pyroclastic flows and lahars are also a concern, but everything is dependent on the scale and duration of the eruption. “The other hazards from a Mount Spurr eruption would only affect the areas immediately surrounding the volcano. While there are no residents in the identified hazard areas for pyroclastic flows and lahars, people do visit the area for recreational or subsistence purposes,” AVO representative wrote on social media. (MORE POLLS: Did You Go to Church in March?)
“The safety and well-being of Alaskans is our top priority,” Gov. Mike Dunleavy wrote in a statement. “Alaska has successfully navigated volcanic events in the past, and we are ready to respond again if necessary. I encourage everyone to review their preparedness plans and utilize the resources available.”
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