Scientists on high alert as underwater volcano about to erupt

Scientists are closely monitoring an underwater volcano that is expected to erupt for the first time in nearly 10 years.

The Axial Seamount, located in the northeastern Pacific Ocean hundreds of kilometers off the coast of Oregon, is considered the most active volcano in the region. Situated 1,500 meters below sea level, the volcano last erupted in 2015.

William Wilcock, a marine geophysicist and professor at the University of Washington, said in a statement: “Over time, the volcano inflates due to the build-up of magma beneath the surface.”

“Some researchers have hypothesized that the amount of inflation can predict when the volcano will erupt — and if they’re right, it’s very exciting for us, because the volcano has already inflated to the same level it reached before its last three eruptions. That means it could erupt any day now, if the hypothesis holds true,” he added.

Experts believe an eruption is imminent due to intense seismic activity in the area — with 200 to 300 small earthquakes occurring each day.

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