The Axial Seamount underwater volcano off the coast of Oregon is preparing to erupt. But does this pose a tsunami threat?

Researchers from Oregon State University report that the volcano is swelling like a balloon due to the accumulation of molten rock inside. This indicates an impending eruption.

Having erupted three times in the last 30 years, Axial Seamount shows data suggesting a new eruption could occur this year. Over 2,000 earthquakes were recorded in a single day in June.

Researchers indicate that predicting volcanic eruptions can help identify future threats, but these predictions are quite challenging.

Microbes living on the seafloor are also being monitored. The research aims to understand how these microbes respond to volcanic eruptions and environmental changes.