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Preliminary volcano-hazard assessment for Augustine Volcano, Alaska

Open-File Report 98-106
By:  and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr98106

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Abstract

Augustine Volcano is a 1250-meter high stratovolcano in southwestern Cook Inlet about 280 kilometers southwest of Anchorage and within about 300 kilometers of more than half of the population of Alaska. Explosive eruptions have occurred six times since the early 1800s (1812, 1883, 1935, 1964-65, 1976, and 1986). The 1976 and 1986 eruptions began with an initial series of vent-clearing explosions and high vertical plumes of volcanic ash followed by pyroclastic flows, surges, and lahars on the volcano flanks. Unlike some prehistoric eruptions, a summit edifice collapse and debris avalanche did not occur in 1812, 1935, 1964-65, 1976, or 1986. However, early in the 1883 eruption, a portion of the volcano summit broke loose forming a debris avalanche that flowed to the sea. The avalanche initiated a small tsunami reported on the Kenai Peninsula at English Bay, 90 kilometers east of the volcano. Plumes of volcanic ash are a major hazard to jet aircraft using Anchorage International and other local airports. Ashfall from future eruptions could disrupt oil and gas operations and shipping activities in Cook Inlet. Eruptions similar to the historical and prehistoric eruptions are likely in Augustine's future.
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Preliminary volcano-hazard assessment for Augustine Volcano, Alaska
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 98-106
DOI 10.3133/ofr98106
Edition -
Year Published 1998
Language ENGLISH
Publisher Alaska Volcano Observatory ; Branch of Information Services [distributor],
Description v, 39 p. :ill. (some col.), maps (some col.) ;28 cm.; 26 illus.; 1 plate; 1 table
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