For Immediate Release

A MODIS satellite image, captured by the Geographic Information Network of Alaska, confirms pilots' sightings of a steam plume emerging from Augustine Volcano. The plume appears to be primarily steam, but reports of a sulfurous smell have been reported by surrounding communities to the Alaska Volcano Observatory. The plume extends an estimated 50 miles from the volcano.

FAIRBANKS, Alaska—Okmok Volcano in the Aleutian Islands began erupting at 11:43 a.m. Saturday, just five hours after seismologists at the Alaska Volcano Observatory began detecting earthquakes. Okmok is located on Umnak Island near Unalaska in the Aleutian Islands.

The initial ash cloud reached heights of approximately 45,000 feet. As of Monday afternoon, an ash cloud was drifting southeast of the 3,520 foot volcano at heights of 30,000 feet and posed a risk to aircraft. Two plane flights from Unalaska were cancelled due to the eruption.

For travelers in Europe, the recent eruption of Iceland’s Eyjafjallajokull [AY-uh-fyat-luh-YOE-kuutl-uh] meant a major disruption in business and travel plans. For Alaska volcano researchers, the eruption has offered a chance to learn more about the way volcanoes work.