Monitoring and preparing for earthquake at Mount Baker

After a significant earthquake swarm near Mount Rainier, researchers are increasing their focus on Mount Baker's volcanic activity. The U. S. Geological Survey noted over 1,300 earthquakes at Rainier between July and August, surpassing a previous record. While Mount Baker typically has only a few earthquakes every few years, its primary hazard is the potential for lahars, fast-moving volcanic mudflows.

Mary Benage is leading efforts to update the hazard assessment, using advanced modeling techniques to predict lahar flows and ashfall. The goal is to make this information accessible to emergency managers by 2026. Low-frequency earthquakes at Mount Baker, caused by fluid movements in deeper fault zones, occur more frequently than typical tectonic events. Stevens works to differentiate these low-frequency earthquakes from glacier movements, aiding in understanding volcanic activity. Proposed budget cuts from the Trump administration could hinder the USGS's vital monitoring programs.