Alaska is Explosive
Monday, April 6th, 2009
Experts have been predicting for months that an eruption of Mount Redoubt was inevitable. It has not disappointed. The 10,200 foot volcano first erupted on Sunday night (March 22). It has since erupted an additional five times sending ash into the sky over Alaska that has reached up to 50,000 feet. The volcano sits about 100 miles to the south west of Anchorage. It is not expected to cause a health risk to residents, but that doesn't mean it isn't wreaking a little havoc. Alaska Airlines was forced to suspend flights so that they could protect their airplanes from the destructive ash. Around 35 flights were canceled, but flights have now been resumed to and from the State of Alaska after reports that ash clouds have moved out of the area.
Mount Redoubt seems to have quieted but that is not expected to remain the case. Scientists have said that the eruptions could last for several days or even several months. It has been twenty years since Mount Redoubt made its presence known in the region. At that time there were around 20 different explosions in the volcano.
Experts say this is the expected activity for a volcano of this type. It is difficult to warn people about the dangers of pending eruptions because things can happen so fast. It is important for visitors and residents to stay up to date on any warning that may be issued.
The conditions around Mount Redoubt are considered dangerous and now may not the best time for adventure travel to the area. Visiting Anchorage, Alaska at this time could allow you to experience the volcano from a safe distance. Be sure to check ahead to see that flights to the region have not once again been canceled due to ash from future eruptions.
Image via
