Mount Spurr, an 11,070-foot stratovolcano located 81 miles west of Anchorage, Alaska, has begun showing signs of activity after decades of dormancy. Over the past year, the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) recorded more than 3,400 earthquakes beneath the volcano, with frequent tremors suggesting magma is moving upward beneath the surface. This seismic activity echoes patterns seen before Mount Spurr’s last major eruptions in 1992, when ash clouds disrupted air travel and affected the health of local residents. Currently, the volcano’s alert level is moderate, but scientists are closely monitoring ground movement, volcanic gas emissions, and satellite data for any changes that might indicate an impending eruption. Meanwhile, Alaskans are preparing by stocking masks, goggles, and air purifiers, and packing emergency kits in anticipation of possible ashfall and related hazards.
The health risks associated with volcanic ash are significant, particularly for people with respiratory issues such as asthma, as ash particles can irritate the lungs, eyes, and throat. Beyond health concerns, ashfall can damage vehicles, contaminate water, and reduce visibility, creating dangerous conditions. Past eruptions provide a clear warning of the potential impact, as ash from Mount Spurr once reached heights of over 12 miles, forcing flight cancellations and widespread disruption. Local officials and scientists continue 24-hour surveillance, sharing safety information and preparedness plans with the community. Though the exact timing of an eruption is unknown, the combination of scientific monitoring and public readiness ensures that if Mount Spurr erupts again, residents will be better equipped to respond swiftly and safely.
