Alaska Volcano Observatory Update
Friday, March 22, 1996 2:00 pm AST (2300 UTC)

Level Of Concern Color Code: YELLOW

The number of earthquakes recorded in the vicinity of Akutan continues at a rate of about 60-80 per day. This rate is significantly lower than the more than 800 per day recorded on March 13 and 14. Data from four seismic stations are transmitted in real-time to AVO, which is now staffed around the clock to provide analysis and interpretation of seismicity. Although the threat of an imminent eruption has decreased from earlier in the week, the volcano remains restless.

The following scenarios are considered possible:

1. Earthquake activity continues to decrease, with some fluctuations, and no eruption occurs.
2. Earthquake activity intensifies leading to an eruption of a lava flow from the flank or within the summit caldera, accompanied by ash plumes and explosions.
3. Earthquake activity intensifies leading to an explosive eruption accompanied by ash plumes.

No Updates Will Be Issued Over The Weekend Unless The Level Of Seismicity Changes

AVO is closely monitoring the situation. Recordings of current information are available by calling 907-786-7478. Information on the Akutan situation is also available on the Internet: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/

PLEASE CONTACT AVO IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:

Terry E.C. Keith                                        John Eichelberger
AVO Scientist-in-Charge                         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) 474-5530
FAX=(907) 786-7425                                      FAX=(907) 474-7290
EMAIL=TKEITH@TARDADDY.WR.USGS.GOV       EMAIL= EICH@GI.ALASKA.EDU