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Augustine ‘Code Red’ for more eruptions
Today's two early morning explosions at Augustine Volcano were likely just the beginning, say experts who have set the "level of concern" code for activity at Code Red. According to information released today by the Alaska Volcano Observatory, "an explosive eruption could occur with little or no warning."
Scientists who flew over the volcano this afternoon reporting seeing a “pure white steam cloud rising to about 11,500 feet above sea level and drifting northwest.” So far, no ashfall has been observed, though further eruptions could be strong enough to send ashclouds over populated areas, including Anchorage.
Formed in 1988, the volcano observatory uses federal, state, and university resources to monitor and study Alaska’s hazardous volcanoes, to predict and record eruptive activity, and to mitigate volcanic hazards to life and property.
The AVO Web site offers a comprehensive resource on Augustine activity, including a photo gallery and preparedness data. Should ash begin drifting your way, there is also a link with information on how to collect ash samples for scientific research.
S. PREJEAN / Alaska Volcano Observatory & USGS | Posted 01.12.06 at 5:23 am