Newport, Oregon — The Axial Seamount, a towering underwater volcano located approximately 300 miles off the Oregon coast, is exhibiting signs of imminent eruption, according to researchers. This active geological feature sits more than 4,900 feet beneath the surface of the Pacific Ocean and has raised alarm among scientists studying its behavior.

Last erupting in 2015, Axial Seamount is renowned for its unique geological activity. During that event, it produced thick lava flows and triggered around 8,000 earthquakes, dramatically altering the seafloor. Currently, scientists are observing significant inflation of the seafloor, a phenomenon indicating that magma is accumulating beneath the surface.

William Wilcock, a marine geophysicist at the University of Washington, notes that the current inflation levels mirror those seen prior to the last eruption nearly a decade ago. He explains that researchers believe this inflation may help predict future eruptions. “The volcano could erupt at any time now, based on the hypothesis and the data we have gathered,” Wilcock stated.

Despite the increasing activity, experts maintain that there is no immediate danger to coastal communities. The depth and distance of Axial Seamount mean that its eruptions go largely unnoticed by those above, and researchers assert that it does not affect seismic activity on land.

Mike Poland, a scientist from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, emphasizes the volcano’s status as one of the most closely monitored submarine volcanoes globally. “This volcano is fascinating because, while it has a propensity to erupt, it presents little hazard to human populations,” he said.

Located along the Juan de Fuca Ridge, Axial Seamount is classified as a young shield volcano, known for broader and flatter features. Poland indicates that, when it erupts, the event will likely resemble a Hawaiian-style lava flow. “The eruption is characterized by slower effusions of lava rather than explosive activity,” he added.

Researchers anticipate that Axial Seamount may erupt before the end of 2025, based on previous trends and current measurements. Seismic activity has notably increased, with hundreds of small earthquakes occurring daily around the volcano. These quakes often indicate that magma is making its way upward.

In 2024, scientists commenced more detailed monitoring after observing that the volcano’s surface had swelled to heights similar to those preceding its last eruption. This trend, they believe, will lead to a forthcoming eruption, possibly offering unprecedented insights into the dynamics of undersea volcanism.

As the monitoring continues, scientists prepare to utilize advanced instruments to gather data during any eruption event. The College of the Environment at the University of Washington boasts one of the largest underwater observatories, enabling researchers to observe and analyze volcanic behavior in real-time.

Although Axial Seamount poses no immediate threat to coastal communities, its eruptions could provide critical information that enables scientists to better understand submarine volcanoes. Insights gained from studying Axial could ultimately improve forecasting for more hazardous volcanoes, a lesson underscored by the devastating eruption of the Hunga volcano in Tonga in January 2022, which generated a tsunami across multiple regions.

As scientists remain vigilant, the potential eruption of Axial Seamount stands not only as a natural event but also as an invaluable opportunity for geological research. Through continuous monitoring, they hope to unlock the secrets of this vibrant undersea world and enhance the understanding of volcanic activity.