Sarigan Volcano
© Worldof22.comSarigan Volcano in Mariana Islands
A submarine volcanic eruption is underway near the uninhabited Sarigan Island in the Northern Mariana Islands 3,800 miles southwest of Hawaii, in the Pacific Ocean. Volcanic activity was first detected on Thursday. The Guam Weather Forecast Office reported that recent satellite images indicate that the affected area is about twice the size of Sarigan Island. Successive satellite images indicate that this is a point-source that has dramatically expanded in breadth. The activity appears to be centered about 6-7 miles south of Sarigan, probably on the southern extension of the submarine ridge upon which Sarigan is constructed.

Seismicity and subaqueous eruptive activity have declined at Sarigan Volcano prompting reduction of the Aviation Color Code to YELLOW and the Volcanic Activity Level to ADVISORY. Seismicity at a single nearby station on Sarigan Island declined soon after the eruption of a large steam and ash cloud from a submarine vent 11 km (7 miles) south of Sarigan Volcano early yesterday. Satellite images show no sign of ongoing activity. An EMO(Emergency Management Office of Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands) observer aboard an overflight yesterday reported a large area of debris floating in the sea south of the island, and a stationary area of discoloration in the water, presumably above the vent. The crew on Sarigan reported passage of a small wave (less than 0.5 m) following onset of the eruption yesterday.

Submarine eruptions are not uncommon in the Marianas Islands; mariners in the area have been asked to stay alert for floating debris and avoid areas of strongly discolored or disturbed water. Near-sea level eruptions are said to be dangerous producing ash laden explosions, ash and ballistic fallout, and water waves.