Alaska Volcano Observatory Update
Thursday, March 21, 1996 5:00 pm AST (0200 UTC)

Level Of Concern Color Code: YELLOW

The number of earthquakes recorded in the vicinity of Akutan continues at a rate of about 60-80 per day. This rate is significantly lower than the more than 800 per day recorded on March 13 and 14. Data from four seismic stations are transmitted in real-time to AVO, which is now staffed around the clock to provide analysis and interpretation of seismicity. Although the threat of an imminent eruption has decreased from earlier in the week, the volcano remains restless.

The following scenarios are considered possible:

1. Earthquake activity diminishes and no eruption occurs
2. Eruption of a lava flow from a vent on the flank or within the summit caldera, accompanied by ash plumes and explosions
3. Explosive eruption producing ash plumes.

AVO is closely monitoring the situation. Further updates will be issued as information becomes available. Recordings of current information are available by calling 907-786-7478. Additionally, information on the Akutan situation is available on the Internet at: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/

PLEASE CONTACT AVO IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:

Terry E.C. Keith                                        John Eichelberger
AVO Scientist-in-Charge                         AVO Coordinating Scientist
U.S. Geological Survey                                  Geophysical Institute
4200 University Drive                                   University of Alaska
Anchorage, AK  99508-4667                               Fairbanks, AK  99775
OFF= (907) 786-7443                                     OFF=(907) 474-5530
EMAIL=TKEITH@TARDADDY.WR.USGS.GOV       EMAIL= EICH@GI.ALASKA.EDU