Yes, this is Redoubt Volcano. No, the volcano didn't just erupt. This isn't a new picture. This photo was taken during the 1990 eruption. Photo by R. Clucas, Alaska Volcano Observatory

My mother-in-law called this morning from Tennessee and asked, "Why haven't you been blogging about the volcano?"

My answer: You don't blog about things that aren't news. (Well, at least I generally don't, although my definition of "news" can be pretty loose on the blog.) If the thing blows, now that's worth blogging about (at least until the ash arrives in Anchorage and I have to turn off the computer and put a big plastic baggie over it).

But I suppose it's time to say something about Mount Redoubt. It is, after all, an active volcano about 100 miles away from my home. It's been rumbling. If it spews ash into the air, it could make life a bit interesting around here.

While I've experienced plenty of earthquakes in Alaska since moving here in 2000, this would be my first volcanic eruption.

When Redoubt first started showing signs of activity a couple weeks ago, people got all fired up. They ran out and bought respirators, extra air filters for their cars, that sort of stuff. I was in the bank last Saturday and all the computers that weren't in use were covered in plastic bags. My chiropractor said her dad would be distraught because she doesn’t have cupboards full of canned food.

I'll admit to being unprepared for a potential volcanic experience. (Those words were kind of fun to type; don't know why.) We do have a "disaster kit" prepared. We always expected it would be needed for an earthquake or a wildfire on the Hillside. I didn’t really think of volcanoes. The American Red Cross of Alaska has some tips here.

I suppose it's time to re-evaluate our disaster kit and think about a volcano.

I only have one request. If the volcano decides it's time to blow its top, I hope it does it on a clear day. That way, we'll be able to see it from Anchorage.

-- Steve