Learn how to prepare for a possible volcanic eruption

March 21, 2025

Recent volcanic activity at Mount Spurr, located about 75 miles west of Anchorage, has led the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) to raise the alert level. While an eruption is not guaranteed, it is prudent to prepare. Mount Spurr previously erupted in 1953 and 1992. Based on previous eruptions, changes from current activity in the earthquakes, ground deformation, summit lake conditions, and fumarolic activity would be expected if magma began to move closer to the surface. Therefore, if an eruption occurred, it would be preceded by additional signals allowing warning.

If a new eruption occurs, it could lead to significant ashfall, flight disruptions, and business interruptions across Southcentral Alaska. Many University of Alaska locations could be affected, and the impacts could be felt across the system.

What is most important right now is that all of us take steps to learn what to do in the case of an eruption, and how to prepare for an emergency at work, school and home. 

Visit UAA’s Environmental Health and Safety's Mt. Spurr Updates page for up to date information regarding workplace and home preparedness.

UA Incident Management teams will determine if there is a need for campus closures, and will communicate that through emergency channels. If you work in a location different from your primarily affiliated campus, you should follow the guidance of the university in your location. 

Current Status

As of March 19, 2025, the AVO has designated Mount Spurr at Alert Level YELLOW (ADVISORY). Unrest continues at the volcano with...

• Elevated seismicity with numerous small, shallow volcanic earthquakes
• Observed steam plume from the summit
• Ongoing surface deformation
• Elevated gas emissions

While an imminent eruption is not predicted, AVO continues to closely monitor for signals that would indicate the volcano is moving closer to an eruption. Based on previous eruption patterns, we would expect additional warning signs before any major event.

Potential Impacts

Based on the 1953 and 1992 eruptions, you should be aware of these potential impacts:

• Ashfall: Up to 1/4 inch of ash could fall on Southcentral Alaska communities depending on wind direction
• Air Travel: Disruption to aviation operations, with potential airport closures
• Road Conditions: Ash creates slippery road conditions and can damage vehicle engines
• Utility Systems: Possible impacts to air handling systems and filtration equipment

Key Resources

1. Alaska Volcano Observatory: https://avo.alaska.gov/volcano/spurr/activity
• Current status updates, monitoring data, and ashfall forecast models
2. National Weather Service Resources:
• Forecasts of airborne ash hazard to aircraft: https://weather.gov/aawu/
• Volcanic Ash Advisories: https://weather.gov/vaac
• Forecasts of ash fall: https://weather.gov/afc
3. State of Alaska Emergency Information: https://ready.alaska.gov/
• Emergency response planning and preparedness
4. Volcano Notification System:
• Sign up for alerts: https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns/

Ensure that you talk with your teams about your plans in the case that a volcanic eruption could impact your ability to travel or work. Whether it involves remote work plans, operational adjustments or safety protocols, communicating early and often will reduce confusion and keep your team prepared.