Today, Governor Dunleavy reaffirmed that the state is fully prepared for any potential eruption of Mount Spurr. While an eruption is not certain, proactive measures are in place to protect residents, infrastructure, and essential services.
“The safety and well-being of Alaskans is our top priority,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. “Alaska has successfully navigated volcanic events in the past, and we are ready to respond again if necessary. I encourage everyone to review their preparedness plans and utilize the resources available.”
Current Preparedness Measures:
- Centralized Public Resource: The state has launched a comprehensive resource hub at ready.alaska.gov/volcano, providing Alaskans with real-time updates, pet care guidance, vehicle maintenance recommendations, and updates from DOT on state facilities and airport operations.
- Public Information & Alerts: Alaskans are encouraged to stay updated through the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) (avo.alaska.edu) and the National Weather Service (NWS) for real-time monitoring, ashfall forecasts, and safety alerts. Sign up for volcano notifications at https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns/.
- Emergency Coordination: State agencies, including the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF), and Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (DHS&EM), have activated response plans to mitigate potential impacts.
- Law Enforcement & Emergency Response: DPS is ensuring that any State Trooper, Wildlife Trooper, or Village Public Safety Officer has the equipment necessary to continue responding to 911 calls and emergencies despite active ash fall. DPS has procured additional parts and preventative maintenance services to ensure that aircraft, vessels, and vehicles impacted by ash fall can be returned to service quickly.
- Geological Monitoring & Public Information: DNR volcanologists with the Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS), as part of the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), have been closely monitoring Mount Spurr since last fall. DGGS staff collaborate with the US Geological Survey and University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute to track volcanic activity, forecast eruptions, and mitigate hazards.
For real-time updates and emergency alerts, visit ready.alaska.gov/volcano or follow official state channels.
