America’s Volcanoes

A third Alaskan volcano has erupted. AVO reports that Kasatochi has erupted within the last one to two hours. The plume is officialy at 35,000 feet, however, unofficial reports are 40,000+.

From AVO:

AVO/USGS Volcanic Activity Notice

Volcano: Kasatochi

Current Volcano Alert Level: WARNING

Current Aviation Color Code: RED

Issued: Thursday, August 7, 2008, 3:26 PM AKDT (20080807/2326Z)
Source: Alaska Volcano Observatory
Notice Number: 2008/A24
Location: N 52 deg 10 min W 175 deg 30 min
Elevation: 1030 ft (314 m)
Area: Aleutians Alaska

Volcanic Activity Summary: Satellite data show an ash plume to an altitude of at least 35,000 ft. in the vicinity of Kasatochi Volcano 22:30 UTC (14:30 ADT). The plume is drifting to the south-southwest. Based on this information, we are elevating the color code to RED/WARNING. This follows the recent increase in volcanic and earthquake activity.

Hazard Analysis:
[Ash cloud] Ash cloud to at least 35,000 feet
[General hazards] Ash confirmed by satellite data

Remarks: AVO is monitoring this situation closely and has its operations room staffed 24 hours per day. More information about activity at Kasatochi Volcano can be found on the AVO web siteat www.avo.alaska.edu or by calling 907-786-7497.

Kasatochi Island represents the emergent summit of a predominantly submarine volcano composed of basaltic and andesitic flows and pyroclastics. Kasatochi has had no known historical eruptions; however, the volcano is mantled by a cover of young appearing pyroclastic debris indicative of relatively recent explosive activity. The island consists of a single, undissected cone with a central lake-filled crater about 0.75 km in diameter. A maximum height of 314 m is on the southern crater rim; elevation of the lake is less than about 60 m. Kasatochi Island is at the northern end of a 15-km-long, 6-km-wide submarine ridge that is normal to the trend of the Andreanof Islands. Water depths along the ridge are less than 90 m; if Kasatochi is constructed entirely on the ridge, the total height of the volcanic pile is only a little more than 400 m. Kasatochi is 83 km (52 mi) east of the community of Adak , and 90 km (55 mi) west of the community of Atka.

More as soon as I get it.