Volcanoes such as Mount St. Helens generate a wide variety of phenomena that can alter the earth’s surface and atmosphere, endangering people and property. These volcanic dangers include not only an eruption of a mountain and associated lava flows, but also ash fall and debris flows. If you are near any of our Pacific Northwest volcanoes, such as Mount Rainier, Mount Hood, or Mount St. Helens, be familiar with the following.
Before a volcanic eruption:
- Plan ahead. Always have emergency supplies, food, and water stored.
- Plan an evacuation route away from rivers or streams that may carry mud or debris flow.
- Keep a battery-operated radio available at all times.
- If an eruption predicted, monitor the radio, TV or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for evacuation information.
- Follow the current advice given by the relevant authorities.
Volcano eruption authorities include:
- United States Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory
- Washington State Department of Health
- American Lung Association
More information to help you if Mount St. Helens erupts:
