Scientists are closely monitoring an underwater volcano off the Oregon coast, which is expected to erupt this year. The Axial Seamount, located about 4,900 feet underwater in the northeastern Pacific Ocean, has shown signs of increased activity, including over 2,000 earthquakes near the volcano on one day in June.
While the eruption poses no risks to human life, scientists believe it will provide valuable insights into how volcanoes work on land. Researchers have been monitoring the volcano’s activity since 2011 and have witnessed three previous eruptions, including in 1998, 2011, and 2015.
The potential eruption is expected to be small, with Chadwick stating that “if you were on top of it on a boat, you would never know it.” The Axial Seamount is located far from populated areas and property, making it an ideal location for scientists to study eruptions without posing any risks to human life.
Researchers are using the location to provide real-time data to help them better understand volcanoes. If successful in forecasting eruptions at Axial, scientists hope to apply their knowledge to other more dangerous volcanoes around the world.
The ongoing seismic activity and volcanic eruptions in Russia and Alaska serve as a reminder of the U.S. West Coast’s vulnerability to geological forces. Experts emphasize that even minor tremors can cause public anxiety, but there is currently no immediate cause for concern. The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network has issued tsunami advisories for parts of the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii due to their proximity to seismic and volcanic activity.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/08/20/oregon-underwater-volcano-axial-seamount