Volcano Near Alaska’s Largest City on the Verge of Eruption, Scientists Warn

MOUNT SPURR, Alaska — New indicators of volcanic activity have emerged near Alaska’s largest city, suggesting an increased likelihood of eruption at Mount Spurr. This 11,070-foot volcano, located approximately 80 miles northwest of Anchorage, is among 53 volcanoes in Alaska that have experienced activity in the past 250 years.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) reported on March 12 that recent overflights detected significantly elevated volcanic gas emissions, heightening concerns about potential eruptions in the coming weeks or months. AVO noted that increased seismic activity and surface heating are expected as signs of further unrest evolve.

“If an eruption were to occur, we anticipate days to weeks of additional warning,” the AVO stated. This unrest is characterized by newly reactivated fumaroles at the volcano’s Crater Peak vent and ongoing earthquake activity, along with ground deformation.

Historically, Mount Spurr has exhibited explosive eruptions, as witnessed in 1953 and 1992. Those eruptions were brief but impactful, sending ash clouds hundreds of miles and affecting communities in south-central Alaska with minor ashfall.

Despite the mounting signs suggesting an eruption may be imminent, geophysicist John Power emphasized that it’s also possible the current unrest may subside without any significant eruption occurring. He noted the potential for a smaller eruption or a complete return to normalcy.

The last known eruption from Mount Spurr’s summit vent occurred over 5,000 years ago, while the Crater Peak vent last erupted in 1992 after three eruptions in that year. Increased seismic activity led AVO to elevate the alert status for Mount Spurr to yellow in October 2024.

Should an eruption occur, the consequences could echo those of past events. Eruptions in recent history produced ash columns exceeding 50,000 feet, triggering airport closures and prompting health advisories for residents due to ashfall. For Anchorage and surrounding areas, these disruptions can be particularly significant given the reliance on air travel in a state with limited road connections.

The situation remains dynamic as experts continue to monitor the potential risks associated with Mount Spurr. Alert levels will be adjusted accordingly based on ongoing observations.