Anchorage: A massive volcanic eruption is imminent as Mount Spor in Alaska has witnessed a significant increase in seismic activity recently, raising concerns about a possible volcanic eruption. The Alaska Volcano Observatory reported that shallow earthquakes beneath the mountain have returned to their high levels recorded last March, after declining during March and April. Despite the diminished possibility of an eruption, the 11,000-foot-high volcano remains in a state of turmoil that requires monitoring.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, experts explained that any potential eruption would be preceded by warning signs, such as an ash plume reaching 50,000 feet, which could impact the nearby city of Anchorage. It's worth noting that seismic activity beneath the mountain has been increasing since April 2024, with the rate of tremors jumping from 30 to 125 per week by October. Although gas measurements in May showed a slight decrease in emissions, they remained above normal levels, potentially indicating the presence of magma beneath the surface.
The observatory noted that the pattern of any potential eruption would likely resemble the eruptions of 1953 and 1992, which produced ash clouds that extended hundreds of miles. An eruption from Crater Peak's lateral crater could also trigger mudslides and rock slides at speeds of 200 miles per hour. However, experts reassured that residential areas would not be directly affected, although air traffic could be disrupted, as happened in 2006 when ash covered Anchorage and closed the airport.