Underwater Volcano Near Oregon Shows Signs of Imminent Eruption

Axial Seamount, the most active volcano in the Northeast Pacific, is exhibiting alarming signs of an imminent eruption, according to scientists closely monitoring its seismic activity. Situated approximately 480 kilometers off the coast of Oregon, the volcano has experienced a notable spike in earthquakes, with counts rising to hundreds per day over recent months.

Volcanologist Bill Chadwick stated that the volcano is expected to erupt before the end of 2025. Unlike typical explosive eruptions, forecasts indicate that Axial Seamount will produce a more subdued eruption that will crack open at the surface, allowing magma to ooze out and create new seafloor without generating tsunami risks.

Researchers have been monitoring Axial since 1997, and they report that the current inflation and seismic activity closely resemble patterns seen prior to past eruptions in 1998, 2011, and most recently in 2015. The volcano's swelling is attributed to rising magma pressing against its surface, prompting scientists to prepare for future eruptions.

Axial Seamount straddles the Juan de Fuca and Pacific tectonic plates, forming new ocean crust which gradually spreads from this underwater geological structure. Experts believe that the insights gained from studying Axial could enhance understanding and prediction of more hazardous volcanic activities globally.