Mount Spurr Eruption Warning: Alaskans Prepare for Volcanic Ashfall

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Residents of Southcentral Alaska are taking precautions following a warning from the Alaska Volcano Observatory that Mount Spurr, located 78 miles northwest of Anchorage, is likely to erupt within the next few weeks to months. The potential eruption raises concerns about significant ashfall, which could affect air quality, transportation, and public health.

Mount Spurr, a stratovolcano that stands at 11,000 feet, has a history of eruptions, most notably in 1953 and 1992. Previous events resulted in up to a quarter-inch of ash accumulating across local communities, temporarily closing the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and disrupting daily life.

According to scientists, the impending ashfall poses a serious risk to both aviation and ground transportation. “Ash can hurt not only aircraft but it also poses risks for ground transportation,” said Matt Haney, scientist in charge at the Alaska Volcano Observatory. “Driving conditions become hazardous due to reduced visibility, and roads can get slick with ash.”

Residents are advised to assemble disaster supply kits, including two weeks’ worth of non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and cellphone chargers. In addition to standard supplies, experts recommend N95 masks, spare air filters, and plastic sheeting to protect residences and vehicles from volcanic ash.

“Ash can damage eye and lung health, and it poses a risk to vehicles,” said the U.S. Geological Survey in a recent advisory. They highlighted the importance of keeping vehicles washed and the need to change air filters after any ashfall.

Local animal care facilities are also spreading awareness about the risks to pets and livestock. Vets recommend keeping animals indoors and washing any exposed fur or skin with clean water. “We’ve seen an increase of about 800 sales of canine masks,” said Mark Robokoff, owner of AK Bark in Anchorage. “People are being proactive about safeguarding their pets.”

Schools in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and Anchorage have prepared plans to respond to potential volcanic activity. “Our main goal is to keep students safe and informed throughout this process,” said John Notestine, a spokesman for the Mat-Su Borough School District, noting that decisions will be based on the time of day, the size of the eruption, and associated weather patterns.

As of March 21, scientists had not detected signs of imminent eruption, such as volcanic tremors. “We’re looking for a particular signal that one often sees before volcanoes make the final push towards erupting,” Haney stated. “We have not seen that yet.” However, he emphasized that past eruptions have given ample warning time. Volcanic tremors were detected three weeks before the June 1992 eruption and two months before Redoubt erupted in 2009.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing developments and to heed warnings from local authorities. Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance has reminded the community to stay vigilant and prepared for possible ashfall in the coming weeks or months, noting, “Stepping up our emergency operations is the appropriate move to manage preparation and reduce community concern.”