Axial Seamount: An Underwater Volcano Poised for Eruption

Axial Seamount: An Underwater Volcano Poised for Eruption

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing a volcanic eruption in real time, there may be an opportunity on the horizon. The Axial Seamount, one of the world’s most active underwater volcanoes, is reportedly inching closer to an eruption. However, for viewers to witness this phenomenon, they must be watching a live stream when it occurs.

A Glimpse into Axial Seamount

Situated approximately a mile below the surface of the Pacific Ocean, the Axial Seamount rises about 3,500 feet above the surrounding seafloor. Its location atop a plate boundary where Earth's tectonic plates are continuously spreading contributes to its vigorous volcanic activity. Researchers suggest that eruptions at Axial are more frequent due to its position above a hotspot, similar to those found beneath Hawaii or Iceland.

According to Bill Chadwick, a research professor at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center, "At Axial, eruptions are more frequent because it's situated on a plate boundary and over a hotspot." Despite the dynamic nature of this volcano, it poses no direct threat to the public, as its depth and distance from shore minimize potential impacts.

Current Developments

As of December 2024, scientists have indicated that the Axial Seamount is moving towards its first eruption since 2015. While the timing remains uncertain, ongoing monitoring efforts are in place.

Observing the Eruption Live

To satisfy the curiosity of enthusiasts, the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) has installed cameras to provide live video feeds of the volcanic activity. The camera focuses on a notable hot spring deposit known as "Mushroom," located within the Axial Seamount Hydrothermal Emission Study (ASHES) vent field. The live feed is available to the public during specific hours: 2, 5, 8, and 11 a.m. and p.m., streaming for 14 minutes at a time. Additionally, continuous recordings occur on the 10th and 20th of each month, and for an extended 72-hour period from the 1st to the 3rd.

Contextualizing Volcanic Activity

This news comes amid recent events highlighting volcanic activity worldwide, such as the concerning eruption of Mount Etna in Europe, which sent hikers scrambling as ash and gas erupted into the atmosphere. As scientists continue to monitor the situation at Axial Seamount, discussions have emerged regarding the potential impact on marine life and ocean ecosystems should an eruption occur.

As anticipation builds around the Axial Seamount, viewers can prepare for a unique experience. Though public safety is assured due to the volcano’s deep location, the opportunity to witness geological processes in real time sets the stage for a captivating scientific exploration.