Axial Seamount, an underwater volcano located 470 kilometers off the coast, is showing increasing signs of activity, with experts predicting a potential eruption this year. Standing 1,100 meters tall and stretching 2 kilometers in diameter, it is one of the most studied underwater volcanoes in the world. This growing activity has caught the attention of scientists, offering a unique chance to learn more about volcanic behavior beneath the sea.
Axial Seamount has erupted several times in the past, with significant eruptions in 1998, 2011, and 2015. Its consistent activity and accessible location make it a key focus for researchers. Unlike many volcanoes, which offer little time for warning, Axial has been closely monitored with advanced technology, including a seafloor cable system that tracks real-time seismic activity, magma movement, and ground swelling. This technology has made it possible to watch the volcano’s behavior closely, giving researchers a rare chance to predict eruptions before they happen.
Recent observations show that the surface of Axial Seamount has swelled to levels similar to those before the 2015 eruption, signaling that magma is building up beneath. “This is a significant achievement for volcanic science,” said Mark Zumberge, a geologist from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Such swelling is a key sign that an eruption could be on the horizon.
With years of data, scientists are using artificial intelligence (AI) to better understand patterns in seismic activity and ground changes. By analyzing previous eruptions, researchers are refining models to predict future eruptions with more accuracy. “Axial is a great case for studying how volcanoes work,” said volcanologist Valerio Acocella. However, he reminded us that volcanic behavior can still be unpredictable.
While Axial Seamount poses no direct threat to humans due to its deep location, its eruptions offer valuable insights into volcanic activity. A potential eruption in 2025 could help improve global forecasting models, making this a critical moment for volcano research. By studying Axial, we are taking important steps toward better predicting volcanic activity worldwide.
