Scientists and disaster management experts are paying special attention to three U.S. volcanoes showing increasing seismic activity right now: Hawaii’s Kilauea, Alaska’s Great Sitkin, and Mount Spurr. The erratic character of volcanic systems and the significance of early monitoring and community readiness are underscored by these occurrences.
At Great Sitkin, the risk of an eruption has increased to “Watch” status, meaning that the volcano is displaying high levels of instability. Indicating that magma is moving beneath the surface, this categorization comes after a string of minor earthquakes and apparent lava emissions.
Seismic activity has significantly increased at Mount Spurr, also in Alaska, with a notable rise in the weekly number of recorded earthquakes. Scientists believe there is a 50/50 chance of an eruption at Mount Spurr, highlighting how erratic volcanic activity can be.
The increasing frequency of earthquakes is a certain indication that the volcano’s magma system is getting more active, even though there hasn’t been an eruption yet.
In February 2025, Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, erupted once more in Hawaii, launching lava fountains that rose about 300 feet into the sky.
The volcano is still a possible concern despite the fact that the eruption has now stopped due to ongoing activity and high seismic readings. Since Kilauea’s previous eruptions have seriously damaged neighboring villages, constant monitoring and readiness are essential.
Rising magma levels beneath these volcanoes increase the likelihood of eruption, which could have hazardous effects like ashfall, lava flows, and the discharge of poisonous volcanic gasses, according to experts.
These risks directly endanger the infrastructure, local population, and air quality, especially if the volcanoes erupt suddenly. Communities close to these volcanoes are being urged by authorities to stay informed through official updates, prepare emergency kits, and evaluate evacuation routes and backup plans.
A variety of cutting-edge instruments are being used by experts to keep an eye on the situation, such as gas monitors to measure emissions that indicate magma movement, satellite imaging to track surface changes, and seismic sensors to identify earthquakes.
Additionally, historical eruption records are important because they enable volcanologists identify trends and enhance their capacity to predict future occurrences. Although no evacuations are currently planned, officials warn that things might quickly change, particularly if the seismic activity keeps becoming worse.
The current phase of increased community outreach and monitoring highlights the importance of being prepared in order to lower the hazards connected with volcanic eruptions.
