Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski from Alaska, alongside Senators Mazie Hirono of Hawaii and Maria Cantwell of Washington, have reintroduced a bipartisan bill to reauthorize a domestic program for detecting and warning about volcanic threats. This legislation will enable the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to enhance its volcano monitoring and early warning capabilities nationwide.

Senator Sullivan highlighted Alaska's position on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it the most volcanically active state in the country. He noted that experts have predicted an eruption at Mount Spurr, located less than 100 miles from Ted Stevens International Airport, which is a major air cargo hub. Sullivan emphasized that volcanic eruptions pose risks not only to Alaskan communities but also to global trade and aviation. He expressed his support for the legislation with Senator Murkowski and other colleagues to reauthorize NVEWS, investing in critical monitoring technologies and resources.

Senator Murkowski pointed out that there are 141 active volcanoes in Alaska, underlining the importance of continuous detection, warning, and response systems across the Pacific Ring of Fire. She expressed hope for swift passage of this noncontroversial legislation through Congress.

Senator Cantwell remarked on Washington state's four dangerous volcanoes, stressing the need for investment in science and robust monitoring to keep communities informed and mitigate future threats.

Senator Hirono referenced recent volcanic activity in Hawaii as evidence of the necessity for improved monitoring capabilities. She emphasized that reauthorizing this program would ensure scientists can provide real-time hazard information for residents, visitors, and emergency responders.

David Fee from the Alaska Volcano Observatory noted that volcanic eruptions pose significant threats but can be forecasted accurately with proper equipment and data. He highlighted Mount Spurr's unrest as an example where sufficient instrumentation allows scientists to provide warnings before possible eruptions.

The National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System Act initially passed Congress in 2018 under Murkowski's leadership. The Act provides USGS with resources needed to modernize U.S. volcano observatories' monitoring systems. Though its authorizations expired at the end of Fiscal Year 2023, Murkowski has ensured continued federal funding for this priority.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory is a consortium involving USGS, University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, and State of Alaska Geological Surveys. Mount Spurr is projected to erupt soon with potential ash impacts on populated areas in Alaska.