In the shadow of Alaska's bustling city, Mount Spurr whispers of its ancient power. Elevated gas emissions suggest a restless giant beneath the surface.

Mount Spurr is one of 53 volcanoes in Alaska that have been active within the last 250 years. It is roughly 80 miles northwest of Anchorage.

“It is also possible that an eruption could occur with little or no additional warning,” the Alaska Volcano Observatory stated. “This would be extremely hazardous for recreators on Mount Spurr or near its drainages as well as those overflying the volcano.”