Seismic Activity Beneath Volcano Near Alaska’s Largest City Sparks Worries

An uptick in seismic activity beneath Mount Spurr, located 129 kilometers northwest of Anchorage, Alaska, has geologists on alert, Arab News reported yesterday.

This year, approximately 1,500 small earthquakes have been recorded, compared to the typical 100 annually. The Alaska Volcano Observatory raised the volcano’s alert status from green to yellow in October due to pronounced seismic activity and ground deformation detected via satellite.

Mount Spurr last erupted in 1992, producing an ash cloud that reached nearly 19 kilometers, disrupting air travel and prompting public health measures. While the current seismic activity is notable, Observatory scientist David Fee cautioned that it does not necessarily indicate an imminent eruption. Historical data shows similar unrest occurred from 2004 to 2006 without leading to an eruption. Scientists continue to monitor seismic stations, satellite data, and webcams for any signs of significant changes that might suggest magma movement closer to the surface.