Threat remains from volcano

Mt. Redoubt continues to vent steam and volcanic gases as an eruption remains a real possibility, says Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys.

“Based on all monitoring data, we do think it will erupt within weeks, and the eruption will be similar to the [Redoubt] eruption of 1989-90,” said Janet Schaefer, a volcanologist from ADGGS.

According to the current data, siesmicity remains elevated and above background levels. There are two plumes of vapor coming from two 100-meter cracks in the glacier, called point source fumerals. While it takes a tremendous amount of pressure to create this vapor, the height of the plumes does not exceed the summit of the mountain, she said.

In an eruption, these plumes will be forced higher just prior to a violent explosion. The ash will follow, with most being dumped around the foot of the volcano. The remaining ash will form a cloud reaching an estimated height of around 40,000 feet, she said.

The prevailing winds around Mt. Redoubt blow eastwardly, leaving the Valley and Anchorage out of the direct path of the ash cloud. However, the winds are always subject to change, and the necessary precautions should be taken, Schaefer

The website of the Alaska Volcano Observatory [http://www.avo.alaska.edu/] provides current updates on the volcano’s status, webcam shots of the mountain, and the potential direction of the ash cloud based on elevation and predicted wind patterns. There is also a link to the United States Geological Survey site for ash fall preparedness website [volcanoes.usgs.gov/ash] for tips and safety precautions.