Scientists have reported an increase in earthquake activity at Mount Spurr. Mount Spurr is an active volcano [opening in Earth’s surface] in Alaska.
Earthquakes are a warning sign of an eruption [outpouring of melted rock and ash]. They are caused by magma [melted rock below Earth’s surface] rising toward Earth’s surface. In February, scientists thought the chances of eruption were only 50/50. But warning signs are increasing. Now scientists are saying that the volcano is likely to erupt.
Scientists look for more changes in activity to predict eruptions. Since April of 2024, they have been observing many small, short earthquakes. When these earthquakes change to longer shaking events, the chances of eruption increase.
Mount Spurr erupted in 1992 and 1953. In both of these eruptions, a layer of ash covered the city Anchorage. After the 1992 eruption, the Anchorage airport had to shut down due to the ash.
Scientists are continuing to keep a close eye on the volcano. They continue to update the warning system. The alert level right now is yellow. That is just one level above normal.
What Do You Think? How can people use the volcano warning system?
Photo Credit: (t)Christina Neal, U.S. Geological Survey, (b)R. McGimsey, U.S. Geological Survey
