Homer Canceled
On Thursday, Steve and I made the decision to cancel our trip to Homer after news that Mt Redoubt erupted again. I am so thankful that we did, as the volcano has erupted several times since then, and has been spewing ash up and down the Kenai Peninsula. Then, to make matters even more dangerous, avalanches closed the Seward Highway near Girdwood - the route we would take to Homer. If we would have gone, as planned, we’d no doubt be stuck in Anchorage right now - with no way, or desire, to continue our trip to Homer.
We are both very disappointed, but also glad that we made the decision to cancel.
You can read more about Mt. Redoubt at the Alaska Volcano Observatory website here: http://www.avo.alaska.edu/activity/Redoubt.php
So far, there has been no ash showing up in Fairbanks. Fairbanks is about 400 miles from the volcano, so we’re relatively safe - however if the winds shift, we could see trace amounts. Ash is bad for engines, mechanical equipment and lungs, as the particles have sharp edges. This is not good for anyone with breathing difficulties (I have asthma), so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it doesn’t reach the interior.
We’re considering a trip to Homer during Steve’s time off in April, although the eagles will not be active then, as they will be nesting. We originally booked a gray whale watch out of Seward in April, but that was canceled because the highway into Seward will be closed for bridge repair. We just can’t win! I hope these early season disappointments don’t continue into the summer months. We’re scheduled to return to Homer in July, and go on a bear viewing trip to Katmai while there.
So, with Steve off for the next few days, I’d like to at least take a scenic drive. I’ve got cabin fever and the temperature has been above zero with a lot of sunshine lately.
Until next time…
Where did you read about the road closures to Seward? I’ve been reading your blog in anticipation for my own trip to Alaska in April, and I have also booked the grey whale tour in Seward. Now I am wondering if I will be able to make the drive there from Anchorage? With the volcano, I’m hoping the trip doesn’t end up a big disaster.
[Reply]
susanstevenson Reply:
March 28th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Hi Francesca. We made our reservation for the whale watch tour for the weekend of April 25th-26th, and were told that the road would be closed that weekend. However, a friend of mine is going the week prior and is not affected. The road closure is only for one weekend, so as long as you’re going at a different time, you’ll be OK. We were notified of the road closure by the folks at Kenai Fjords after we booked our trip.
As for the volcano, we’re remaining hopeful that things will calm down so our vacation travels aren’t affected. I do hope that your trip up isn’t impacted negatively!
As for the drive from Anchorage to Seward, I don’t anticipate you having any problems - barring some late season avalanche. The highway was closed a few days ago for an avalanche in the Girdwood area, but it’s open now.
[Reply]
Francesca Reply:
April 3rd, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Thanks! I called the cruise company and they told me all should be fine with the roads next weekend which is when we are scheduled to go out on the bay. I’m sorry that you were affected. I’m very excited for our trip!
[Reply]
Comment by Francesca — March 28, 2009 @ 11:16 am
Thank You Susan For the information on the volcano We have been watching all the news here about it That web site that you also sent with your Journal is also very interesting I have had the chance to read all of it but will Hope that you will be able to take that vacation later and it will be all cleared up
Thank you again Love John and Shirley
[Reply]
susanstevenson Reply:
March 28th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
The volcano is really wreaking havoc on anyone who wants to travel in and out of Alaska, as well as those who want to travel within that part of Alaska. Just goes to show you can’t win against Mother Nature!
Hopefully things will settle down by next month. We’d like to try to go to Homer in April.
[Reply]
John & Shirley Strauser Reply:
March 28th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Susan When you say “You can not win against Mother Nature” That is for sure So I guess Don’t even try
Hope that you guys can make it to Homer next month
Take care John and Shirley
[Reply]
Comment by John & Shirley Strauser — March 28, 2009 @ 11:46 am
Sorry to hear your plans got ruined! That stinks! But I am glad you are still in FB safe and sound…don’t think I’d want to be venturing out to that area of Alaska with all the stuff going on. Boy that volcano sure sounds like he was a little bit angry the other day with all those eruptions! Sheesh…! I’m sure you guys will find somewhere to venture off to on your time off, you always do! Enjoy Steve’s vacation!
[Reply]
Comment by Lynn in MN — March 30, 2009 @ 5:11 am