Volcanoes are one of nature’s most awe-inspiring and destructive forces. The United States is home to tens of volcanoes threatening the well-being of surrounding communities, infrastructure, and tourism. Check out some of America’s most active and deadly volcanoes you may never have heard of.
1. Mount Kilauea, Hawai
One of the most active volcanoes, the Kilauea, has continuously erupted since 1983. The danger of this volcanic spot is not only in its lava flow but also from the explosive eruptions that can occur when water mixes with its magma.
2. Mount St. Helens, Washington
This volcano is famous for killing 57 people in 1980, causing over a billion dollars in damage. St. Helens is active to date and is characterized by small regular eruptions that could grow bigger in the near future. This makes it threatening to tour bikers and mountaineers.
3. Mount Rainer, Washington
Looming over the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area, Mount Rainer has a reputation as one of the most deadly in the world. One major eruption is recorded to have caused volcanic mudflows bringing devastating effects to communities nearby.
Mount Rainer is also home to several glaciers which have been negatively impacted by climate change in the last 100 years.
4. Redoubt Volcano, Alaska
When this stratovolcano erupted in 1989, it sent ashes 40000 feet into the air, halting air travel and military operations in the region. Redoubt, with its eruption, is capable of causing millions of dollars in damage to aircraft.
5. Mount Shasta, California
Shasta is considered an increased threat in the region by fielding high potentials for lava and pyroclastic flows (a mix of hot lava, blocks, pumice, ash, and volcanic gases). It is usual to find worshippers and spiritual seekers along its terrain as many believe it is a sacred site.
6. Mount Hood, Oregon
Located some 50 miles from Portland, the high propensity of this volcano to erupt and affect the surrounding environment makes it dangerous. Mount Hood is one of the loftiest mountains in the United States based on its prominence.
7. Three Sisters, Oregon
These closely spaced volcanic peaks vary slightly in height and are grounds for hikers and backpackers. Made of towering sandstones, the three sisters pose threats of environmental degradation and harm to plant and animal life. Despite these threats, the Sisters’ cascading range and stunning vistas make them hard to resist.
8. Akutan Island, Alaska
Known for its ashfalls and lavas, the Akutan volcano in the Aleutian Islands has had several explosive eruptions recently. As a result, Akutan is considered a significant threat to aircraft movements in the area.
9. Makushin Volcano, Alaska
Sitting in the middle of a unique fishing port on Unalaska Island makes the frequently erupting volcano a threat to the living conditions of local residents, with the propensity of disrupting the local fishing industry.
10. Mount Spurr, Alaska
This stratovolcano near anchorage erupted in 1992 and is expected to erupt again in the near future. Researchers have installed a network of sensors and instruments around Mount Spurr to monitor its activities.
11. Lassen Volcanic Centre, California
Home to several hydrothermal features, this complex of volcanic domes and cinder cones last erupted in 1915. The Lassen is currently active and is expected to erupt in the future. Its surrounding hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots are a thing of staggering beauty. Tourists could, however, get harmed from getting too close to the extreme heat and toxic gases.
12. Augustine Volcano
A teeming stratovolcano on Augustine Island in the Cook inlet, the Augustine Volcano is surrounded by a diverse community of seabirds like the horned puffins and cormorants that suffered from its eruptions as recently as 2006. Augustine is considered a significant threat to air travel and surrounding wildlife.
This thread inspired this post.
More From Savoteur
Climate change is a growing concern across the globe, and one of its most significant threats is rising sea levels. With each passing year, the risk of flooding and coastal erosion becomes greater. According to a report from the Union of Concerned Scientists, 15 U.S. cities could be underwater by 2050. Here is a list of those cities and what’s at stake for each.
Put on Your Lifejackets: 14 U.S. Cities That Will Be Underwater by 2050
These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Lakes in the United States
Some of the world’s most breathtaking lakes are in the United States. Yet, not all lakes are created equal, and some are downright dangerous. These 12 lakes make it to the list of the most dangerous lakes in the U.S.
These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Lakes in the United States
15 Deadliest Beaches in America: Avoid These on Your Next Vacation
As summer approaches and beach-goers flock to the coast, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers that can lurk beneath the waves. From treacherous currents to deadly wildlife, America’s beaches can be beautiful yet perilous. Here are the 15 most dangerous beaches in America.
15 Deadliest Beaches in America: Avoid These on Your Next Vacation
Diving to New Depths: Discovering the Deepest Lake in the World
The world is home to many awe-inspiring bodies of water, and some of the most fascinating are the deep lakes. These lakes boast impressive depths that can leave even the most experienced divers breathless. Here we share the deepest lake in the world, ranked by depth.
Diving to New Depths: Discovering the Deepest Lake in the World
12 Most Dangerous Animals That Live on the Beach (That Aren’t Sharks)
Many people relax at the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the refreshing water. However, the beach can also be home to some of the most dangerous animals in the world. While sharks often steal the spotlight regarding beach-related dangers, many other creatures pose a significant risk to humans. Here are 12 of them.
12 Most Dangerous Animals That Live on the Beach (That Aren’t Sharks)
