Breaking: Earthquakes Surge At Alaska’s Mount Spurr
Officials at the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) have detected a new wave of earthquakes beneath Mount Spurr – a potentially dangerous Alaska volcano sitting just 78 miles from Anchorage. Over the past week, seismic activity has again climbed to nearly 100 earthquakes, echoing the “red alert” levels seen in March, when experts warned an eruption “could happen within weeks.”
Why This Matters
Mount Spurr’s unrest puts Alaska’s largest city—home to nearly 300,000—on edge, sending many residents to stores for food, water, and air filters.
Key Facts at a Glance:
- Earthquakes: ~100 per week (May 2025)
- Magma still present: Deep quakes mean molten rock is on the move
- AVO Status: “Elevated state of unrest”—even as eruption risk now slowly decreases
- Gas emissions: Carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide still above normal
- No recent eruptions at summit: But side vent “Crater Peak” last erupted in 1992
What’s Causing the Alarm?
Deep beneath Mount Spurr’s icy cone, magma rising toward the surface causes cracks, releasing energy as earthquakes. These have increased and decreased over the past year, but the volcano now displays signs that it isn’t yet calming down.
“We’re not out of the woods yet…”
“There’s still earthquakes happening at Mount Spurr.”
— Matt Haney, AVO researcher
Experts explain:
- Gas readings: Still above background, showing magma activity
- Ground deformation: Paused, but similar lulls have resumed before
- Eruption history: Crater Peak vent most likely to erupt next
Could Mount Spurr Actually Erupt Soon?
- Current risk: Waning, but not zero. AVO says most intrusions don’t lead to eruptions, but past similar pauses (like in 2004–2006) showed the volcano could resume activity at any time.
- Worst-case scenario: Similar to 1992 and 1953—explosive, hours-long eruptions
- Ash clouds: Could reach 50,000 ft, blowing east—Blanketing Anchorage and disrupting air travel across North America
Past events:
- 1992 eruption lasted several hours, ash fell up to a quarter-inch deep across Southcentral Alaska
- Mudslides and avalanches could occur, but populations closest to these risks are minimal
? Quick Facts for Casual Readers
- Ash clouds = flight chaos: Anchorage is a major US transportation hub
- Air quality: Volcanic ash can cause respiratory problems, clog engines
- Preparedness: Locals urged to buy masks, food, and filter systems
What’s the Science Behind The Warnings?
Why are earthquakes important?
Earthquakes under volcanoes usually mean magma is shifting. If these continue while gas emissions stay elevated, the chance of eruption rises.
Why the pause in ground deformation?
The “pause” means magma’s upward push has slowed—but experts say this can change without notice.
2024–2025: Steady uptick in quakes, gas, and AVO alerts
- March 2025: 125 quakes/week—Eruption warning
- Late March–April: Decline, but now back to 100 quakes/week
- May 2025: Ongoing unrest, eruption still possible*
Emergency Readiness: What Should Anchorage Residents Do?
Step-by-Step Preparedness Guide:
- Follow AVO and local alerts: Sign up for text/email notifications
- Stock up on essentials: Food, water, dust masks, air filters
- Prepare for power outages: Flashlights, radios, backup batteries
- Limit travel near volcano: Heed evacuation orders if necessary
- Know ashfall protocols: Stay inside, seal windows, wear N95 masks if outside
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Anchorage be covered in ash?
- Likely light to moderate dusting; up to a quarter-inch in prior eruptions.
Could this disrupt air travel?
- Yes. Anchorage is a major hub. Even minor eruptions can halt flights and cause global disruptions.
Is an eruption guaranteed?
- No—AVO stresses that most magma intrusions fizzle out, but risk remains elevated.
What’s Next? Expert Voices
AVO scientists continue to monitor every tremor and gas plume, warning,
“This frustrating phase could ramp up or down at any time.”
With a history of sudden change, locals and travelers are urged to stay alert and prepared.
Where Is Mount Spurr?
- Location: 78 miles west of Anchorage
- Crater Peak: Likely site for new eruption
What Are Readers Doing?
- Stocking up on supplies
- Re-scheduling flights
- Checking updates daily
Stay Ahead: Real-Time Alerts and Trusted Guides
For those living nearby or traveling through Alaska, information means safety.
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Stay updated on the surge in Mount Spurr volcanic activity near Anchorage. Learn what experts are saying about eruption risks, what residents are doing to prepare, and how this could impact travel and safety.
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