Mile-Wide Volcano Could Erupt Off West Coast This Year, Say Scientists
Scientists have raised the alarm over the possibility of a major volcanic eruption off the West Coast of North America, warning that a massive underwater volcano could spew forth a massive ash cloud and pyroclastic flows that could threaten the region.
The volcano, located around 300 miles off the coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, has been eerily quiet for centuries, but satellite imagery has revealed signs of increased seismic activity and gas emissions, suggesting that it is getting ready to blow.
Experts say that if the eruption were to occur, it could be catastrophic, with ash and debris raining down on major cities and disrupting global air travel networks.
“We’re talking about a Hoover-like event that could shut down the entire West Coast,” said Dr. Peter Miller, a volcanologist at the University of British Columbia. “It’s not just a local issue, it’s a global concern.”
The volcano, known as the Haida Gwaii Volcano, is a mile-wide, 3,000-foot-tall behemoth that has the potential to spew forth massive amounts of ash, gas, and rock.
Scientists say that the possibility of an eruption is not just a theoretical concern, but a real and present danger. “We’ve been monitoring the volcano for years, and we’ve seen a significant increase in seismic activity and gas emissions,” said Dr. Miller.
“If the eruption were to occur, it could have far-reaching consequences for the environment, the economy, and human health. It’s a scenario that we’re trying to prepare for, but we need more resources and funding to do so.”
