Recent overflights on March 7 and 11 confirmed a stark increase in sulfur dioxide emissions, now at approximately 450 metric tons per day, compared to less than 50 metric tons in December 2024.

Experts anticipate that further increases in seismic activity, gas emissions, and surface heating may occur prior to any potential eruption.

Seismic activity has surged significantly, with earthquake occurrences rising from 30 per week to 125 per week between October and February, before slightly declining to 100 per week recently.

Elevated levels of sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide emissions have been detected, signaling active volcanic processes at the site.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) has issued a warning regarding Mount Spurr, located near Anchorage, indicating a potential eruption in the coming weeks or months due to increased volcanic gas emissions.

The alert status for Mount Spurr was raised from green to yellow in October 2024 due to pronounced seismic activity and observed ground deformation.

Potential eruption scenarios include explosive eruptions similar to those in 1953 and 1992, smaller lava-forming eruptions, or even a failed eruption, all of which are being monitored closely.

Officials are actively monitoring the situation, assessing risks and threats associated with a possible eruption at Mount Spurr.

Residents are advised to prepare for possible ashfall by stocking up on N95 masks and other supplies, as past eruptions have caused ashfall of up to a quarter-inch in south-central Alaska.

The potential for ashfall raises public health concerns and could lead to airport closures, significantly impacting transportation in Alaska, especially at the busy Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.

While an eruption is deemed likely, it remains uncertain; if magma fails to reach the surface, volcanic unrest may decrease, similar to patterns observed from 2004 to 2006.

A new lake has formed at the summit of Mount Spurr, indicating heightened heat in the crater area and potential magma accumulation beneath the surface.