An Alaskan volcano erupted three times this past Saturday, causing the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) to change its aviation color code to "Orange" from "Yellow." Additionally, the AVO has raised the overall volcano alert level to "Watch."
According to the AVO website, an "Orange" aviation code means the "volcano is exhibiting signs of elevated unrest above known background level or, after a change from a higher level, volcanic activity has decreased significantly but continues to be closely monitored for possible renewed increase."
The three eruptions began around 5 AM, and scientists are currently monitoring the Cleveland Volcano for further eruptions. Additional activity could potentially launch clouds of ash that would severely disrupt intercontinental air travel.
The AVO monitors Alaska's 90 active volcanoes, including the Cleveland Volcano. As of yesterday, they are reporting that "The activity at Cleveland Volcano continues as an ongoing low-level eruption."
The organization's satellite data is showing continuous "low-level" emissions of gas, steam, and ash from the volcano. The plume currently extends eastward below 15,000 feet.
The AVO warns however that "Sudden explosions of blocks and ash are possible with little or no warning. Ash clouds, if produced, could exceed 20,000 feet above sea level."
Approximately 90% of all airfreight trips from Asia to Europe and North America use Alaskan airspace, making this eruption particularly hazardous. A Reuters report indicates that some aviation officials are already rerouting some of those planes north of the volcano as a precautionary measure.
According to Dr. Jeffrey T. Freymueller of the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska however, as long as the eruption does not worsen, it should not affect air travel.
"Unless the eruption changes character, we don't expect there to be any impact on trans-Pacific air travel," he stated. "Thus far, all of the data suggests that the ash plume is not extensive, and has remained below 15,000 to 20,000 feet elevation. As long as it remains at low elevations, airliners will not be affected."