
Pavlof Volcano is expected to erupt soon.
After it has already erupted twice this year, Pavlof volcano is expected to erupt for the third time, according to Alaska Volcano Observatory, and this time, there is the danger of a violent eruption that will require the evacuation of many people.
Pavlof volcano has previously erupted in March and May. The one which occurred in March set an ash cloud of approximately 37,000 feet which spread over hundreds of kilometers. Also, the May eruption has caused the first fall of ash on the ground after twenty years.
A small village was covered by it, and all flights were canceled to reduce the risk of accidents because the volcano is situated 625 miles southwest of Anchorage, an area which serves as a usual route for planes traveling over Alaska.
Scientists recorded a high seismic activity inside the volcano a couple of days ago, and because they observed a steam emission as well, Alaska Volcano Observatory officials decided to raise the alert system from ‘Green’ to ‘Yellow’ or from ‘Normal’ to ‘Advisory.’
This situation is regarded as a preemptive measure for people and experts to be aware of the constant danger posed by the volcano.
Scientists have recorded over 40 eruptions until now. Mount Pavlof is situated in the southwestern area of the Alaska Peninsula, and it is most likely one of the top most active volcanoes throughout the United States.
According to David Schneider, a geophysicist from the Alaska Volcano Observatory, Pavlof is one of the most unstable volcanoes as it can erupt at any time without showing many precursory signs.
Because of this constant seismic activity, experts think that warning people at every little sign of danger is their best bet to make sure that everyone stays safe and prepared for the worst case scenario.
If scientists reach the conclusion that a violent eruption is imminent and most likely to occur soon, the alert system will turn from ‘Advisory’ to ‘Warning,’ meaning from ‘Yellow’ to ‘Red.’
In this case, officials and authorities will take active measures to assure the safety of the citizens and to prevent any possible casualties.
Pavlof volcano has a 7km diameter, and it has been active and consistently dangerous since 1980. After the 1996 eruption, the volcano remained dormant until 2007 when is started leaking lava once again.
Image Source:Wikipedia