Update from Kachemak, Jan. 18:
Significant seismic activity continues to occur at the Mt. Augustine summit, and additional eruptions are possible. The Kachemak Bay Reserve offices in Homer, Alaska, remain closed due to the ash fall from the eruptions of Mt. Augustine late last week. Reports from the field indicated that a light ash fall occurred in Homer over the weekend in the Kachemak Bay area, but there were no significant impacts. Eruptions have produced ash clouds as high as 30,000 feet, as well as pyroclastic flows and mudflows on the flanks of the mountain. Stay tuned for further updates. (NOAA Photo)
Mt. Augustine is a volcanic island directly across Cook Inlet and about 73 miles from Kachemak Bay. Augustine has been rumbling for several months. Additional eruptions are possible over the next several days.
Former Reserve Manager Judy Haner described volcanic dust as "very fine and acts like cement in electronics, vehicle filters, and penetrates every crack and crevice in homes. The clean-up is expensive and long because the dust stirs and is resuspended. Most importantly, this dust can clog the alveoli in the lungs, which in extreme cases can lead to long-term health issues. We are taking all steps to keep everyone safe in case of a large event and will keep the system posted should a full eruption occur."
To help keep an eye on Augustine, visit the Alaska Volcano Observatory at http://www.avo.alaska.edu/activity/Augustine.php.
For more information, contact Terry Thompson.