Undersea Volcanoes Discovered, CO2 Emissions Revised, Axial Seamount Expected to Erupt

The Kīlauea volcano's current eruption has paused after Episode 22, characterized by episodic lava fountaining from two vents, with Episode 23 expected within days. Recent scientific studies reveal volcanic CO2 emissions may be significantly underestimated, with one study finding emissions from a single volcano to be three times higher than previously thought, and another discovering over 19,000 previously unknown undersea volcanoes, challenging the notion that human activity is the sole driver of rising atmospheric CO2. Off the Pacific Coast, the Axial Seamount, the most active undersea volcano in the Pacific Northwest, has shown increased activity and may erupt by the end of the year, but its lava flows are non-explosive and pose no tsunami risk. Experts emphasize no immediate danger from Axial's activity, noting its eruptions are slow lava flows similar to Hawaiian volcanoes and highlight its importance for scientific monitoring. Additionally, Mount Rainier in Washington state remains a focus of concern due to its potential for explosive eruptions and ongoing geological changes, prompting emergency preparedness and infrastructure improvements in surrounding communities. Together, these developments underscore the dynamic nature of volcanic activity and its complex role in environmental and geological processes.