Magma intrusion at Trident volcano, site of the world’s largest eruption of 20th century, Alaska

Magma intrusion at Trident volcano, site of the world’s largest eruption of 20th century, Alaska

Alaska’s Trident volcano has seen a significant increase in seismic activity and ground uplift over the past five months, leading to concerns about a potential volcanic eruption. The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) has confirmed that this unrest is the result of magma intrusion beneath the volcano. The rising magma, which can trigger an eruption, has also caused increased seismic activity in the neighboring volcanoes of the Katmai volcanic cluster, including Katmai, Martin, Mageik, and the Novarupta vent.

Increased seismic activity under Trident volcano, Alaska

Increased seismic activity under Trident volcano, Alaska

On February 22, 2023, the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) raised the alert level of Trident Volcano to ADVISORY and the Aviation Color Code to YELLOW due to an increase in seismic activity beneath the volcano. The last eruption at this volcano was in 1974 (VEI 3).

Earthquake swarm under Trident stratovolcano, Alaska

Earthquake swarm under Trident stratovolcano, Alaska

A seismic swarm started under Trident stratovolcano, Alaska on August 24, 2022, likely driven by the movement of magma or magmatic fluids. The swarm is still in progress but now at a decreased rate. The last eruption of this volcano took place in 1974 (VEI 3).