Borough, school district makes preparations for possible Mount Spurr eruption

When Mount Spurr erupted in 1992, ash spewed some 50,000 feet into the air and blanketed much of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, which lies nearly 75 miles northeast of the volcano. The resulting ash fall closed offices, businesses and schools.

Ash reached as far as Willow, with reports of a quarter-inch of ash reaching Newman’s Hilltop service station, according to Frontiersman story at the time.

On March 12, the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) released a statement that rising gas emissions mean they consider an eruption similar to those in 1992 and 1953 to be “the most likely outcome” of the current unrest. Mount Spurr’s official alert level has not changed since October 16, 2024 when the AVO elevated it to Yellow/Advisory status due to increased activity.

This has increased communication and press coverage, generating the need for more capacity to coordinate, prepare, and respond to community questions.

With the possibility of an eruption, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough (MSB) has been taking steps to prepare for such an event. While not all hazards associated with volcanos, such as lava, landslides, mudflows, flash floods, or tsunamis are likely in the Borough, volcanic ash fall and airborne ash clouds have impacted the Mat-Su Borough, and could again.

The MSB has updated their Disaster Preparedness webpage to include steps to take to prepare for the hazards that could accompany a volcanic eruption, including developing an emergency communication plan. A recommended step is to ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the “family contact,” because after a disaster, it’s often easier to call long distance.

Also recommended is to have disaster supplies on hand, such as the normal items of flashlight and extra batteries, first aid kit and manual, and emergency food and water. Also suggested are a dust mask for each family member and sturdy shoes.

There are also recommendations to take during and after a volcanic eruption. Follow the shelter orders issued by authorities.

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District (MSBSD) has also put together a website with preparedness information and district plans in the event of an eruption, with a more detailed summary of steps that would be considered in the event of an eruption and resulting ashfall.

According to the MSBSD, the specific response will depend on a number of factors including the size of the eruption and weather conditions. If school is NOT in session and ashfall is imminent, MSBSD will close schools; if school IS in session and ashfall is imminent, expect early dismissal. Buses will not be in operation if there is ashfall.

Also, as a measure to protect at-risk student the district asks families should notify their school(s) if their child has an unreported condition. Schools will identify students and staff with respiratory conditions and take necessary precautions.

On the state level, Gov. Mike Dunleavy reaffirmed that Alaska is fully prepared for any potential eruption of Mt Spurr, stating in a press release that while an eruption is not certain, proactive measures are in place to protect residents, infrastructure, and essential services.

“The safety and well-being of Alaskans is our top priority,” said Dunleavy. “Alaska has successfully navigated volcanic events in the past, and we are ready to respond again if necessary. I encourage everyone to review their preparedness plans and utilize the resources available.”

He also said that state agencies, including the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF), and Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (DHS&EM), have activated response plans to mitigate potential impacts.

The Frontiersman newspaper will continue to provide information and updates from the MSB, as well as cities, and others as needed.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated through the Alaska Volcano Observatory by visiting www.avo.alaska.edu and the National Weather Service for real-time monitoring, ashfall forecasts, and safety alerts. Sign up for volcano notifications at www.volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns/

For more guidance from the MSB, please visit www.ready.matsugov.us/pages/volcanos/#before

For more information about the MSBSD plans, please visit www.matsuk12.us/spurr2025