Digital News Report- The Redoubt Volcano is expected to erupt within days or weeks, according to the Alaskan Volcano Observatory (AVO). Scientists have placed that volcano on “watch,” the second highest alert status, after a wave of seismic activity. According to the AVO website, “Seismicity remains above background and largely unchanged with several volcanic earthquakes occurring every hour.”
Redoubt is located about 110 miles southwest of Anchorage, which is Alaska’s most populated city and holds 40% of the states total population. Though the city is not in immediate danger from an eruption, ashfall could pose risks to residents. City officials advised the populace to stock up on supplies such as extra food and water to respirators, plastic bags and windshield washer fluid.
Redoubt’s last eruption began in 1989 and lasted for five months. The eruption caused extensive lahars (mudflows) and disrupted air traffic in the area. The AVO has stated that the expected eruption could be, “similar to or smaller than the one that occurred in 1989-90.”
According to volcanologist Dave Schneider, observatory staff members are checking instrument readings and satellite images around the clock to watch for changes. A Webcam has also been installed about 7.5 miles from the summit.
AVO began receiving reports of strong hydrogen sulfide (H2S) odor downwind of Redoubt since last September, which is a volcanic gas that could be a sign of a pending eruption. They began to notice other signs such as a melt hole, elevated levels of sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and H2S and increased seismic activity.
For more safety information and tips, visit the Red Cross of Alaska website.