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Mount St. Helens erupted on May 18, 1980, killing 57 people and causing one of the largest landslides ever recorded in the U.S. The eruption followed weeks of seismic activity and resulted in the destruction of 230 square miles of forest and the lowering of the mountain's summit by 1,300 feet.
Washington state recorded a 12% drop in opioid overdose deaths, with 3,167 fatalities in 2024 compared to 3,597 in 2023. This decline is notable in King County, where deaths decreased by 22%. Officials remain cautious, citing the need for ongoing vigilance despite the preliminary data.
Sugar Bakery plans to open a new location in Capitol Hill, taking over the space formerly occupied by Cherry Street Coffee. The bakery, which has operated in First Hill since 2016, aims to provide a variety of baked goods and coffee. More details on the opening date will be announced soon.
Seattle residents increasingly prepare for real-world challenges like inflation and economic instability, shifting away from apocalyptic scenarios. Local preppers emphasize practical steps, such as paying down debt and stockpiling essentials, to enhance their resilience. Financial experts note heightened anxiety among clients, particularly those nearing retirement.
Six Rite Aid and two Bartell Drugs locations in Washington will close following a recent U.S. Bankruptcy Court ruling. Bartell Drugs, a cherished Seattle institution since 1890, faces closure unless a buyer intervenes. Rite Aid has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice and plans to shutter stores nationwide.
Residents in Seattle's East Precinct identified traffic and mental health as their top safety concerns during a recent community-police dialogue. Seattle Police Department officials attributed ongoing issues to staffing shortages and highlighted efforts to improve crisis intervention training for officers. The city aims to enhance public safety with increased hiring and better resource allocation.
Sound Transit plans to launch the 2 Line connecting Seattle to the Eastside by early 2026, after multiple delays due to construction challenges. Celebrations marked the opening of new light rail stations in Redmond, but the Eastside will not see another light rail project for at least 20 years. Seattle aims to expedite future expansions to West Seattle and Ballard by 2033 and 2039, respectively.
Pierce County jail now houses juvenile inmates due to staffing shortages and maintenance issues at Remann Hall. Four juveniles were transferred to the adult jail under a court order, with concerns raised about safety and security at the juvenile facility. Officials plan to monitor the situation and return the youth to Remann Hall when conditions improve.
King County's Juvenile Division faces criticism for its low rate of charging juvenile sexual assault cases. Advocates question the effectiveness of the prosecutor's office in handling these cases, highlighting a growing concern among community members.
A man, Garett Merlino, faces felony charges after allegedly threatening an attorney and assaulting Thurston County deputies during an investigation. He is currently held on a $50,000 bond, with a court appearance scheduled for May 22. The deputies involved are recovering from injuries sustained in the altercation.