As Mt. St. Helens eruption anniversary looms, calls for preparation sound across WA

The 45th anniversary of the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption serves as a critical reminder for Washington residents to prepare for potential volcanic threats. The eruption, which claimed 57 lives, dramatically affected central and eastern Washington, blocking out sunlight and causing massive destruction. Brian Terbush, the Earthquake/Volcano Program Coordinator for Washington Emergency Management, stresses the importance of having emergency supplies like food, water, and protective gear readily available. Residents in volcanic flow zones must know their evacuation routes and build emergency kits to ensure rapid response.

Terbush encourages people to learn how they will be alerted to volcanic activity, recommending the USGS Volcano Notification Service for real-time updates. With the likelihood of future eruptions in the Cascades, preparedness can significantly enhance public safety. The lessons learned from Mount St. Helens highlight the need for vigilance and proactive measures. Comprehensive information on volcano preparedness is available through local emergency management resources.