KIRO NEWSRADIO OPINION

Spike reassures Jake that underwater volcano won’t destroy Seattle: ‘Not impactful’

May 14, 2025, 5:02 AM | Updated: 10:40 am

underwater volcano...

The Regional Cabled Array spans the entire Juan de Fuca tectonic plate, from the Oregon coast to the summit of Axial Seamount 300 miles offshore. (Photo courtesy of UW)

(Photo courtesy of UW)

One of the most talked-about recent geological events is unfolding 300 miles off the Oregon coast, where University of Washington researchers reported an underwater volcano is showing signs of a potential eruption.

Jake Skorheim, co-host of “The Jake and Spike Show” on KIRO Newsradio, expressed concern about the possible eruption; however, Spike O’Neill, co-host of “Jake and Spike,” wasn’t worried.

“I was a little bit concerned when I first heard about it,” Jake said. “Not like full-on scared, but definitely shaky. I mean, it’s a giant underwater volcano, and the thought that it could erupt at any moment is unsettling. Even if it’s happening deep underwater, it could still cause huge disruptions, like a tsunami or major changes to the sea floor.”

Experts say no immediate threat from underwater volcano

Despite its growing activity, scientists assured the public there is no immediate threat to human life. Axial Seamount’s eruption is happening slowly, deep beneath the ocean’s surface, and will not impact coastal communities. 

Leading Jake to reassure Spike that the eruption wouldn’t cause any property damage.

“Scientists say the volcano poses no threat to humans, so you don’t need to worry about it,” Jake said. “Despite the intensity of the explosion, it’s happening so deep underwater that it’s really not an impactful event for people.”

Even if a significant eruption occurred, the lava would be quickly dissipated and diluted by the vastness of the ocean. According to experts, people on boats near the eruption site likely wouldn’t even notice it, as the effects would remain submerged.

Listen to the full conversation below:

Listen to “The Jake and Spike Show” weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM. Subscribe to the podcast here.

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