300,000 US residents sent urgent warning to prepare for imminent volcano eruption
Numerous Americans prepare for potential disaster as researchers predict an upcoming eruption from a local volcano. The United States contains approximately 169 'active' volcanoes across its territories, but Alaska's Mount Spurr, standing at 11,070 feet, shows signs of impending activity near Anchorage, the state's biggest urban center. The peak, which exceeds the Yellowstone supervolcano's height by nearly 2,000 feet, remains visible to residents in the coastal city 81 miles distant on clear days.
The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), which regularly monitors 90 of Alaska's estimated 140 volcanoes, reported over 100 weekly earthquakes beneath Mount Spurr between February and March. Their data shows more than 3,400 earthquakes have occurred around the volcano since April of last year.
AVO lead scientist Matt Haney described potential eruption scenarios in discussions with Alaska Public Media. "A Spurr eruption comparable to those in 1953 and 1992 would probably not be audible for Anchorage residents but would be heard if someone were near the volcano. However, such proximity would be dangerous," the researcher explained.
"Ash-producing eruptions can create volcanic lightning within the ash cloud from friction between volcanic particles, generating thunder that travels farther distances. Typically, explosive eruptions fragment magma and propel ash approximately 50,000 feet skyward," Haney continued.
Mount Spurr erupted three times in 1992 (June, August, September), with a previous eruption recorded 39 years earlier. Haney noted: "On August 18, 1992, during the second of three explosions, winds carried ash over Anchorage, resulting in ashfall throughout the city."
With almost 43 years since the last significant eruption, ash likely will descend upon Anchorage and nearby settlements. Alaskans living near Mount Spurr have started gathering face masks, gas masks, protective eyewear, latex gloves, and water supplies in anticipation.
The International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (IVHHN) warns that volcanic ash can cause respiratory diseases when inhaled, particularly affecting asthma sufferers, while also irritating eyes, nose, and throat tissues.
