Predictions for Augustine Volcano

When Augustine erupted on January 23 much of the new dome built at the summit during the past few years disappeared. It left a crater with a floor some 1250 feet below the previous dome top. Then, during the new eruption starting February 11, a new dome structure began building from the crater floor. In one or two days it rose 850 feet.

Dr. Juergen Kienle, who has been studying the volcano's activity for some years expects more gaseous eruptions. There may be another sizable eruption in the near future that could blow away the new dome structure. Also, the volcano may become quiescent so that the new dome remains in place for some years. In short, it is not possible to estimate just when the next major eruption will occur.

Still, there should be warning of major new activity from the expanded seismic network Dr. Kienle has recently installed on the island. In the days prior to each eruption there is a rapid increase of seismic activity within the volcano.