2001 volcanic activity in Alaska and Kamchatka: summary of events and response of the Alaska Volcano Observatory

The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) monitors the more than 40 historically active volcanoes of the Aleutian Arc. Of these, 22 are monitored with short-period seismic instrument networks as of the end of 2001. The AVO core monitoring program also includes daily analysis of satellite imagery, observation overflights, compilation of pilot reports and reports from local residents and mariners. In 2001, AVO responded to eruptive activity or suspected volcanic activity at or near 8 volcanic centers; Snowy and Kukak of the Kamai Group, Pavlof, Frosty, Shishaldin, Makushin, Okmok, Cleveland, and Great Sitkin volcanoes.

In addition to responding to eruptive activity at Alaskan volcanoes, AVO assisted in the dissemination of information for the Kamchatka Volcanic Eruption Response Team (KVERT) regarding the 2001 activity of 5 Russian volcanoes—Sheveluch, Klyuchevskoy, Bezymianny, Karymsky, and Avachinsky volcanoes. Due to prevailing wind directions, erupting Kamchatkan and Alaskan volcanoes pose a serious threat to aircraft in the North Pacific.