The eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980, marked the most destructive volcanic event in U.S. history, causing the deaths of 57 individuals and extensive damage estimated at over $1 billion. Triggered by a magnitude 5.1 earthquake, the eruption generated powerful explosions, mudslides, and ash clouds that traveled vast distances. Prior to the eruption, Mount St. Helens was relatively unknown, but its aftermath transformed volcanic monitoring and the practices of geologists, impacting the field significantly. The 45th anniversary recognizes the ongoing influence of this disaster on science and safety protocols.
When Mount St. Helens erupted on May 18, 1980, it caused enormous devastation, leading to significant changes in US volcanic monitoring and preparedness.
The eruption was triggered by a magnitude 5.1 earthquake, resulting in ash clouds that traveled over 930 miles and extensive damage.
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