Alaska Volcano Observatory

Lava continues to erupt slowly at Great Sitkin Volcano, and small earthquakes associated with this ongoing eruption continue at a low rate.  Steam, warm temperatures and snow-free areas were observed at the summit in satellite imagery from the past day.  Steaming was also observed in webcam views.        

The current eruption of Great Sitkin Volcano began with a single explosive event in May 2021. The ongoing eruption of lava at the summit began shortly afterward, in July 2021. The volcano is monitored using local seismic and infrasound sensors, satellite data and web cameras, and regional infrasound and lightning networks.

Unrest continues at Mount Spurr with small earthquakes underneath the summit region continuing at a low rate. No activity was observed in mostly cloudy webcam and satellite views over the past day.  Clear webcam views from this morning show no activity.  AVO continues to closely monitor activity at Mount Spurr for signals that would indicate that the volcano is moving closer to an eruption. Based on previous eruptions, changes from current activity in the earthquakes, ground deformation, summit lake, and fumaroles would be expected if magma began to move closer to the surface. Therefore, it is very likely that if an eruption were to occur it would be preceded by additional signals that would allow advance warning.

Local seismic, infrasound, web cameras, and GNSS stations are used to monitor Mount Spurr along with regional infrasound, lightning networks and satellite data.