Scientists have declared a red alert, saying there is a “major eruption” of a volcano in Alaska.
Volcanologists said a major volcanic eruption with dangerous activity both on the ground and in the air is occurring. Seismic observations indicate increased eruptive activity at the volcano site. Scientists have raised the aviation color code and volcano alert level to a red alert.
The volcano is called Semisopochny. It is located on Unyak Island, which is part of the Rat Islands group in the western Aleutian Islands of Alaska.
Observations of Semisopochny Volcano show an increase in ash plumes rising up to 15,000 feet into the atmosphere.
Ash emissions from the volcano have increased in frequency and intensity and can be seen in satellite images rising above the clouds.
The ash cloud, blown by strong winds, has spread about 60 miles southeast of the volcano.
The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) reported: “Explosions were observed throughout the day, and increased sulfur dioxide emissions were noted in satellite data this afternoon.
These observations represent increased eruptive activity, so the aviation color code and volcano alert level is being raised to a red alert.”
The volcano is located in the Ring of Fire, which surrounds the Pacific Ocean.
The Ring of Fire is a pathway along the Pacific Ocean characterized by active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes.
It is approximately 24,900 miles long.
