ALASKA VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATE
U.S. Geological Survey
Thursday, August 1, 2024, 11:35 AM AKDT (Thursday, August 1, 2024, 19:35 UTC)
Lava continues to slowly erupt within the summit crater at Great Sitkin Volcano. Over the past day, small earthquakes continued to be detected beneath the volcano. Most satellite and webcam views were obscured by clouds, however satellite radar imagery observed minor growth of the active lava flow.
The current lava flow eruption began in July 2021. No explosive events have occurred since a single event in May 2021.
Local seismic and infrasound sensors and web cameras are used to monitor Great Sitkin along with regional infrasound and lightning networks and satellite data.
No major changes were detected in the past day at Shishaldin Volcano, where minor volcanic unrest continues. Clear satellite imagery and rare clear webcam views showed steaming from the summit crater. Sulfur dioxide was detected in this gas plume in satellite imagery. Small earthquakes and weak seismic tremor were detected in local seismic data.
Minor rock falls associated with collapse of the unstable summit crater area may occur without warning. This can lead to small clouds of dust (volcanic ash), which dissipate quickly and create dark-colored deposits near the summit. There have been no significant ash-producing explosive eruptions since November 2023.
Local seismic and infrasound sensors, web cameras, and a geodetic network are used to monitor Shishaldin Volcano. In addition to the local monitoring network, AVO uses nearby geophysical networks, regional infrasound and lighting data, and satellite images to detect eruptions.
Matt Haney, Scientist-in-Charge, USGS mhaney@usgs.gov (907) 786-7497
David Fee, Coordinating Scientist, UAFGI dfee1@alaska.edu (907) 378-5460
The Alaska Volcano Observatory is a cooperative program of the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, and the Alaska Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys.