Mile-wide volcano could erupt off West Coast this year, say scientists
A mile-wide underwater volcano located off the coast of Oregon and California is at risk of erupting in the near future, according to a team of scientists. The scientists, from the University of Oregon and the United States Geological Survey (USGS), have been monitoring the volcano’s activity for several years and have detected an increase in the number of small earthquakes and volcanic gases emanating from the volcano.
The volcano, known as Axial Seamount, is located about 300 miles off the coast of Oregon and is one of the most active underwater volcanoes on the West Coast. It rises about 7,000 feet above the surrounding seafloor and is characterized by a caldera, or depression, that is about a mile wide and a half-mile deep.
While the volcano is not capable of producing explosive eruptions that would affect the nearby coastline, an eruption could still have significant effects on the surrounding ocean and marine life. According to the scientists, an eruption could release large amounts of heat and nutrients into the water, which could alter the chemistry and biology of the ocean and potentially harm marine ecosystems.
The scientists are monitoring the volcano’s activity closely and will continue to track any changes in its behavior. They say that an eruption could occur at any time, and they are advising people in the area to be prepared for potential disruptions to the ocean and marine life.
“The Axial Seamount is an important part of the marine ecosystem, and it’s not surprising that it’s showing signs of increased activity,” said Dr. Michael Russell, a geologist at the University of Oregon and lead author of the study. “We’re watching it closely and will continue to monitor its activity to determine if it’s heading towards an eruption.”