Light ashfall expected in Su Valley

Mount Redoubt has erupted five times starting at 10:38 p.m. Sunday night, according to the Cheryl Cameron, a geologist at Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys. A National Weather Service ashfall advisory is in effect until 4 p.m. today for the Susitna Valley, including the Talkeetna, Willow, Cantwell and Skwentna.

The highest ash went to 60,000 feet and the bulk was at 25,000 to 30,000 feet, said Cameron. Due to the current wind conditions, the ash is traveling north by northwest. There has been reported ashfall at Skwentna, Petersville and Puntilla Lake.

The National Weather Service will continue to update the ashfall advisory and extend their forecast if necessary.

“In the ‘89-’90 eruption, it erupted for several months,” said Cameron, “and past behavior is our only predictor for future behavior.”

But even where the ash does come down, Cameron said they are predicting it to be only the thickness of a dime or a penny. It will be more of an inconvenience to the communities than a health hazard. Cameron recommend not running machinery or cars, covering computers and staying inside.

For updates go to www.avo.alaska.edu.