Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Mount St.Helens
Mount St. Helens is the most active volcano in the contiguous United States, which makes it a fascinating place to study and learn about. Scientists receive many questions about the volcano, and some of the most frequently asked are compiled below.
Historical Facts about Mount St.Helens
- Where did the name "Mount St. Helens" come from?
- What is the early-settlement documentation of Mount St. Helens?
1980 Eruption
- How high was Mount St. Helens before the May 18, 1980 eruption. How high was it after?
- How much ash was there from the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens?
- How far did the ash from Mount St. Helens travel?
- For additional information, read the website section dedicated to the May 18, 1980 eruption and activity from 1980-1986.
2004-2008 Eruptive Activity
- How large is the lava dome, and how does it compare to the 1980–1986 dome?
- What is the evidence that the lava dome stopped growing in 2008?
- Why is this considered to be a pause? Why is the Alert Level being lowered to Advisory (Color Code Yellow) instead of Alert Level Normal (Color Code Green)?
- If the eruption resumes, what kinds of precursors are likely to provide warning?
- What are some of the lessons that scientists learned from the 2004-2008 eruption?
- For additional information, read the website section dedicated to the 2004-2008 period of volcanic activity.