What Happens if Alaska's Mount Spurr Volcano Erupts in the Coming Weeks?

Mount Spurr, an 11,070-foot (3,374-meter) snow-covered stratovolcano located approximately 80 miles northwest of Anchorage, Alaska, is exhibiting signs of potential eruption in the coming weeks or months. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) has reported significantly elevated volcanic gas emissions and reactivated gas vents, suggesting that magma is intruding into the Earth's crust beneath the summit. 

Historically, Mount Spurr's Crater Peak vent erupted in 1953 and three times in 1992, producing ash columns that rose over 50,000 feet and deposited ashfall across south-central Alaska. The 1992 eruptions led to approximately a quarter-inch of ashfall in Anchorage, prompting residents to stay indoors and causing temporary airport closures due to the abrasive nature of volcanic ash, which can damage jet engines. 

The current unrest has been building over several months, with over 3,400 earthquakes detected under Mount Spurr since April 2024. This increased seismic activity, along with ground deformation observed via satellite data, has led authorities to raise the volcano's alert status from green to yellow. 

The potential eruption of Mount Spurr could have significant implications for air travel, particularly affecting Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, one of the world's busiest cargo hubs. Volcanic ash clouds pose serious hazards to aircraft, as the fine, abrasive particles can lead to engine failure. Communities in south-central Alaska may also experience ashfall, which can impact health, infrastructure, and daily activities.

While the exact timing and magnitude of a potential eruption remain uncertain, scientists anticipate increased seismic activity, gas emissions, and surface heating prior to any eruption. The AVO continues to monitor Mount Spurr closely, utilizing seismic stations, satellites, and webcams to detect any signs of magma movement toward the surface. 

Residents and travelers in the region are advised to stay informed through official channels and prepare for possible disruptions. Past eruptions of Mount Spurr have been relatively short-lived, lasting between three to seven hours, but their impacts, particularly ashfall, have been considerable. Continued vigilance and preparedness are essential as the situation evolves.