ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Experts have increased the likelihood of an eruption at Mount Spurr, a volcano near Alaska’s largest city, in the coming weeks or months. The Alaska Volcano Observatory reported elevated volcanic gas emissions and signs of unrest on March 13, 2025.
- Mount Spurr shows signs of unrest.
- Increased volcanic gas emissions detected.
- Last eruption occurred over 5,000 years ago.
- Potential ashfall impacts on communities.
- Airports may close during eruptions.
Mount Spurr is an ice- and snow-covered volcano standing at 11,070 feet tall and located approximately 80 miles northwest of Anchorage. It is one of 53 active volcanoes in Alaska that have erupted within the last 250 years. The last major eruption from its summit vent occurred over 5,000 years ago. However, the Crater Peak vent experienced eruptions in both 1953 and three times in 1992.
The current unrest follows a period where seismic activity had previously prompted the observatory to raise its alert status from green to yellow last October due to pronounced ground deformation detected via satellite data. Experts anticipate further increases in seismic activity and gas emissions leading up to any potential eruption.
- Eruptions during the last century lasted between three and seven hours.
- Ash columns rose over 50,000 feet above sea level.
- Ashfall impacted communities across south-central Alaska.
If an eruption occurs similar to those seen in previous decades, it could lead to significant ashfall affecting air travel and public health. In particular, ashfall from past eruptions has caused temporary airport closures and advised residents to wear masks outdoors to avoid inhaling ash particles.
The situation at Mount Spurr remains under close observation as experts continue monitoring for increased volcanic activity. While there is a possibility of eruptions similar to those seen historically, it is also feasible that current activities may subside without resulting in an eruption.
