A sleeping giant in the Pacific Northwest’s ocean floor is stirring. The underwater volcano, called Axial Seamount, hidden beneath a submerged mountain range, has been quiet for decades but shows signs of activity with frequent seismic tremors. Experts say an eruption could happen soon, possibly by 2025.
Volcanologist Bill Chadwick, who has closely monitored the area for years, notes that while the volcano isn’t dangerous to humans above water, studying it could help predict eruptions elsewhere. Axial Seamount, about 300 miles off Oregon’s coast and just a mile deep, is among the most studied underwater volcanoes globally.
Since 1997, researchers have used advanced sensors to monitor signs of magma movement. Past eruptions in 1998, 2011, and 2015 showed similar patterns of swelling at the volcano’s base, indicating magma pressure beneath its surface. Recent studies suggest an asymmetric magma plumbing system beneath the island.
This volcano’s activity serves as a valuable case study for understanding other underwater volcanoes. By carefully observing these “sleeping giants,” scientists can gain insights into the factors that trigger eruptions and issue more accurate warnings when needed.
Sources:
– Oregon State University blog on eruption forecasts
– Regional Cabled Array data on Axial Caldera
– NOAA information on Axial Volcano
– Nature study on magma plumbing beneath Axial Seamount
This research underscores the importance of long-term monitoring for improving volcanic hazard assessments both above and below sea level.
Source: https://www.discovermagazine.com/planet-earth/an-underwater-volcano-off-of-oregon-coast-may-erupt-by-end-of-2025