A major eruption may be imminent at Mount Spurr, a massive volcano just 75 miles from Anchorage, Alaska, home to nearly 300,000 people. Scientists at the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) have detected alarming signs, including elevated volcanic gas emissions, increased seismic activity, and ground deformation, all indicating that magma is moving beneath the volcano.
AVO warns that an eruption is likely within weeks or months—but it could also happen with little to no additional warning. In recent months, over 3,400 earthquakes have been recorded beneath Mount Spurr, with over 100 occurring per week. Most were shallow, suggesting magma movement beneath the surface.
Sulfur dioxide levels, which signal volcanic activity, have spiked to nine times higher than December levels. Scientists fear an eruption similar to 1953 and 1992, when Mount Spurr unleashed explosive ash columns over 50,000 feet high, spreading ashfall across south-central Alaska and even reaching Greenland.
If an eruption occurs, it could trigger destructive mudslides, avalanches of hot gas, and lava flows racing over 200 mph. Volcanic ash is highly dangerous, causing respiratory issues and potentially shutting down jet engines. During the 1992 eruption, Anchorage residents were forced to stay indoors or wear masks to avoid inhaling ash.
AVO urges the public to remain alert. Further increases in seismic activity and gas emissions could provide days to weeks of additional warning—but the threat of a sudden, catastrophic eruption looms. Preparedness is critical.
