Akutan Volcano, Aleutian Islands, Alaska

Update 007

Alaska Volcano Observatory Update
Monday, March 18, 1996 5:00 pm AST (0200 UTC)

Level Of Concern Color Code: ORANGE

Significant seismicity continues near Akutan volcano. No eruption has occurred. The number of earthquakes presently being recorded is similar to yesterday and remains well above background. AVO scientists in Akutan report feeling only a few earthquakes last night. Visibility in the area continues to be poor hampering visual observations. Our Level of Concern Color Code remains ORANGE indicating an eruption is possible at any time within the next few days. Good progress is being made in deploying additional instruments which will significantly improve our ability to measure and interpret the ongoing seismicity. Data analysis has not yet progressed far enough to give definitive information. The Level of Concern Color Code ORANGE will remain in place until the seismicity changes significantly or additional data permits a reassessment of the level of unrest.

The following scenarios are considered possible:

  1. Earthquake activity diminishes and no eruption occurs
  2. Eruption of a lava flow from a vent on the flank or within the summit caldera, accompanied by ash plumes and explosions
  3. Significant, explosive eruption producing ash plumes to altitudes of 30,000' ASL or higher.

AVO is closely monitoring the situation. Further updates will be issued as information becomes available. Recordings of current information are available by calling 907-786-7478. Additionally, information on the Akutan situation is available on the Internet at: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/

PLEASE CONTACT AVO IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:

Terry E.C. Keith                    Chris Nye
AVO Scientist-in-Charge             (Acting) AVO Coordinating Scientist
U.S. Geological Survey              Geophysical Institute
4200 University Drive               University of Alaska
Anchorage, AK  99508-4667           Fairbanks, AK  99775
OFF= (907) 786-7443                 OFF=(907) 474-7430
FAX= (907) 786-7425                 FAX=(907) 474-5618
EMAIL=TKEITH@TARDADDY.WR.USGS.GOV   EMAIL= CNYE@GI.ALASKA.EDU