Key Points:

• The Alaska Volcano Observatory indicates a potential eruption of Mount Spurr within the next few weeks or months.
• Significant increases in volcanic gas emissions and seismic activity have been recorded, heightening the eruption risk.
• If an eruption occurs, it could impact residents in Anchorage, located about 75 miles away.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory has warned that Mount Spurr, an active volcano near Anchorage, is increasingly likely to erupt due to heightened geological activity. Recent overflights showed notably elevated emissions of volcanic gas, suggesting that new magma has entered the Earth’s crust beneath the volcano. This increase in gas emissions is a critical indicator of impending volcanic unrest. "We expect to see further increases in seismic activity, gas emissions, and surface heating prior to an eruption," the observatory stated.

Since April, there has been a notable uptick in small earthquakes, with more than 100 tremors recorded weekly. Observers noted that ground deformation has been occurring, along with the activation of fumaroles—gas venting openings at the volcano's Crater Peak. Over the past month, volcanic gas emissions from the summit vent have surged to around 450 metric tons per day, up from fewer than 50 metric tons previously, confirming the potential for an eruption in the near future. While an eruption is classified as "likely," it is not guaranteed.

The last significant eruptions from Mount Spurr occurred in 1953 and 1992, lasting only hours but producing substantial ash clouds that affected air travel, including airport closures in Anchorage. “During this level of unrest, we are conducting routine overflights to measure gas emissions and evaluate surface changes," the observatory indicated. The potential impact of volcanic ash extending to communities in south-central Alaska is a concern, particularly if the ash spreads downwind as it has in past eruptions, according to The Hill.

Volcanologists are closely monitoring Mount Spurr due to its proximity to Alaska’s most populated region. With the volcano currently at a "yellow" alert level, any rise in seismic activity or the detection of volcanic tremors could elevate the alert status to orange or red, indicating an imminent eruption. More information on the updates and monitoring efforts can be found through ABC News.