A massive underwater volcano, Axial Seamount, located off the coast of Oregon, is showing signs of increased seismic activity. The volcano, which rises 1.1km above the sea floor, has been experiencing hundreds of small earthquakes every day, with scientists predicting an eruption by the end of this year. Although the eruption is unlikely to pose a danger to life or cause significant damage, experts warn that it will still be a fascinating event.
Axial Seamount, located on the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the Pacific Ocean, last erupted in 2015 and has been monitored since 1997 using geophysical, chemical, and biological sensors. Researchers have noted similar signs of swelling at the volcano’s base before previous eruptions, indicating that magma is rising beneath the surface.
According to Mike Stone, a researcher at Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, Axial Seamount is likely one of the best-monitored submarine volcanoes in the world. When it erupts, the event will resemble a Hawaiian lava flow eruption, with calm effusions of lava flowing out of the caldera and across the seafloor.
While the eruption may not be catastrophic, scientists see value in monitoring Axial Seamount to improve their understanding of the factors leading up to an eruption. This knowledge can help predict other eruptions, which is crucial for better managing volcanic activity.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/us/underwater-volcano-eruption-tsunami-axial-seamount-b2688497.html