A USGS monitoring system has detected significant signs of an impending eruption at the Axial Seamount volcano off Oregon’s coast. Geophysicist William Chadwick notes that this is a rare feat, as forecasting eruptions more than hours ahead is uncommon. The volcano has been monitored since 2013, with extensive data collected on its rumbling, shaking, and swelling activities.
Recently, the surface of Axial Seamount increased in height to nearly pre-eruption levels in November, indicating built-up pressure from accumulated magma. This swelling has raised hopes that scientists can predict a future eruption, as it was successful in predicting the 2015 event. A new tool is being developed to estimate the day of the magma burst.
Researchers are also using artificial intelligence to analyze past earthquake patterns and predict early warning signals for eruptions. Catching an underwater volcanic eruption could provide insights into its impact on hydrothermal systems and nearby biological communities. The Axial Seamount volcano presents a unique opportunity for scientists to test new forecasting methods without risking false alarms, as seen in some land-based volcanoes.
Source: https://www.sciencenews.org/article/scientists-undersea-volcano-eruption