Imagine being jolted awake by the ground trembling beneath you—then realizing it’s not just one natural threat looming, but two.
That’s exactly what people in Alaska are dealing with right now, as a moderate earthquake struck the region while a nearby volcano continues to show signs of unrest.
Earthquake Rattles Residents Just Miles From a Rumbling Volcano
In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake hit near Hope, Alaska, just 33 miles south of Anchorage.
It struck at 12:03 a.m. local time, and while the shaking was considered light, thousands of Anchorage residents felt it.
People described hearing buildings creak before the shaking began, followed by a slight rolling sensation.
One local posted online, “Felt it from 45 miles north of Anchorage—first heard the building creak, then came a solid shake followed by a slight rolling motion at the end.”
Thankfully, no damage or injuries have been reported. But with five quakes measuring 4.1 or higher hitting South-Central Alaska in just the past 11 days, it’s clear the region is restless.
Tension Mounts Around Mount Spurr
While the earth shakes below, Mount Spurr—an active volcano located about 78 miles from Anchorage—is keeping scientists and residents on edge.
The Alaska Volcano Observatory has been tracking elevated seismic activity and gas emissions, both signs that an eruption could be on the horizon.
In fact, small volcanic quakes have been detected under Mount Spurr in recent days, though most are too minor to pinpoint.
A flyover inspection on April 24 revealed that gas emissions are still elevated compared to March levels, fueling concern about what’s to come.
What Could Happen If Mount Spurr Blows?
According to experts at the US Geological Survey, if Mount Spurr erupts, we could see dramatic scenes unfold.
Powerful explosions would send ash clouds shooting up to 50,000 feet into the sky—high enough to ground flights and pose health hazards.
Each eruptive event could last up to four hours and cover Anchorage in a thick layer of volcanic ash.
There’s also a risk of destructive mudslides and debris avalanches speeding down the volcano at over 200 miles per hour. Fortunately, no towns lie directly in the immediate path of those potential slides.
Anchorage Locals Are Prepping for the Worst
Knowing the risk, many Anchorage residents aren’t waiting for an official warning—they’re taking action now.
Social media is filled with posts about emergency prep, from gathering respirators to sealing up homes.
One TikToker, Lia, shared how she and her family are getting ready.
“Mount Spurr is about to erupt, and I want to make sure we are prepared because we’ve never gone through a volcanic eruption,” she said.
She stocked up on air filters, respirators, swim goggles, and even protective eyewear for her dog.
Others are using duct tape to seal windows and doors, aiming to keep ash out of their homes.
Aftershocks Continue to Shake the Region
Even after the 4.7 magnitude quake, smaller aftershocks have been recorded.
While most are too minor to feel—ranging from 1.1 to 2.0 magnitude—they’re a reminder that Alaska’s geological activity isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
According to seismic experts, quakes under 2.5 usually go unnoticed.
But when combined with volcanic tremors and the possibility of an eruption, they add to a growing sense of urgency.
A Community on High Alert
The people of Anchorage are staying alert, keeping one eye on the earthquake reports and another on Mount Spurr.
As one local said on X, “We keep having earthquakes here in Anchorage, Alaska.
Mount Spurr might erupt any day now! Low key can’t wait to see it.”
While some express curiosity, most are focused on staying safe and being ready for whatever nature throws next.