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ASD's Mount Spurr Preparedness Information
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ASD is committed to keeping you informed and prepared.
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The safety of our students and staff is our top priority as we prepare for the possible eruption of Mount Spurr. Just 80 miles west of Î÷Ê©Ö±²¥APP, this volcano has a history of eruptions—most recently in 1992, when it covered the city in ash and disrupted air travel.
We are working closely with the U.S. Geological Survey, the Alaska Volcano Observatory, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the Municipality of Î÷Ê©Ö±²¥APP Emergency Operations. These partnerships allow us to respond quickly and effectively to assist in keeping our community safe.
What to Expect if an Eruption Occurs
- If school is NOT in session and ashfall is imminent, ASD will close schools.
- If school IS in session and ashfall is imminent, expect early dismissal.
What to Expect for Transportation, Maintenance, and Operations
- Student Transportation:
- Bus routes may be adjusted to avoid hazardous roads.
- Buses will receive immediate air filter inspections to prevent engine damage.
How ASD Is Preparing
- Protecting At-Risk Individuals:
- Schools will identify students and staff with respiratory conditions and take necessary precautions.
- Families should notify their school if their child has an unreported condition.
- Emergency Action Plans:
- Each school has a volcano response annex outlining shelter-in-place procedures and air quality measures.
- Building Safety:
- Schools are equipped with specialized air filters to maintain indoor air quality.
- Extra filters are available through the Maintenance Department.
- Emergency Supplies:
- Emergency connex units across the district are stocked with N95 masks, first aid kits, and essential supplies.
- Employees will receive N95 or KN95 masks, and each student will be provided with two washable cloth masks.
- Reducing Indoor Ash Exposure:
- Schools will limit exterior door use to prevent ash from entering buildings.
- Ventilation systems will be adjusted as needed to improve indoor air quality.
- Timely Alerts & Notifications:
- Families and staff will receive immediate updates through District communication channels.
- Sign up for real-time notifications about school closures, transportation updates, and safety instructions through the ASD Mobile App.
- Stay connected with official updates
- Families and staff will receive immediate updates through District communication channels.
Media
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How to prepare for a likely volcano eruption in Southcentral Alaska
ADN
By Jenna Kunze
Published: March 22, 2025 -
What to know about Mount Spurr’s likely eruption
Alaska Public Media
By Wesley Early, Chris Klint
Published March 19, 2025
FAQs
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What are ASD’s plans if an eruption occurs during the school day?
If an eruption occurs while school is in session and ashfall is imminent, ASD will implement an early dismissal to get students home safely before conditions worsen. Bus transportation will continue as planned, with possible route adjustments for safety. Schools will follow emergency procedures, including shelter-in-place if immediate evacuation is unsafe. After-school and community rentals will be cancelled.
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What are ASD’s plans if an eruption occurs at night or on weekends?
If an eruption happens outside school hours and an ashfall is expected, ASD will close schools until conditions are safe for students and staff to return. After-school and community rentals will be cancelled. The District will provide timely updates through mass notifications, email, and the ASD website.
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If schools are closed due to an eruption, will students and staff have to make up lost days?
The decision to make up lost instructional days will depend on the length of closure and State education requirements. ASD will communicate any necessary adjustments to the school calendar if needed.
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Will after school activities, sports, childcare programs, and community rentals continue operations?
All programs and events that take place on ASD campuses will be canceled in the event of a school closure due to volcanic eruption.
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Will ASD implement remote learning if schools close due to an eruption?
ASD does not plan to implement remote learning at this time.
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What resources are available to students and staff to stay safe and healthy during an eruption?
ASD is proactively distributing N95 or KN95 masks to employees and washable cloth masks for students to reduce ash inhalation risks. Schools will also implement protective measures, such as minimizing outdoor activities, securing building ventilation systems, and providing guidance on safe cleanup practices.
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How will bus transportation operate if an eruption occurs during the school day?
Bus transportation will continue with safety adjustments as needed. Routes may be altered to avoid hazardous areas, and buses are currently undergoing air filter inspections to prevent engine damage. If conditions deteriorate rapidly, ASD may implement shelter-in-place procedures until it is safe for dismissal.
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What are the most important cleanup and safety measures after an ashfall?
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Personal preparedness is crucial—families should have 3-5 days of food, water, and medications in case of disruptions.
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Vehicles and HVAC systems should have spare air filters to prevent damage from ash buildup.
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How will ASD maintain air quality and protect school buildings?
ASD will shut down exterior HVAC vents to prevent ash infiltration, provide additional air filters, and deploy maintenance crews to begin safe ash removal procedures.
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How can families and staff stay updated on ASD’s eruption response plans?
Stay informed about school closures, transportation updates, and safety instructions via this web resource page. You can sign up for emergency alerts through the ASD Mobile App at /mobileapp. You can also stay connected by following official updates on ASD’s social media channels at /connectwithasd.
