Today in History

May 18, 1980

The Eruption of Mount St. Helens

Mount St. Helens had been largely quiet since the late 1850's. Some minor explosions occurred in the early part of the 20th century, but were quickly forgotten by all but a few scientists. However, a two-month series of seismic episodes in 1980 caused concern that the mountain was becoming highly active. On May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens exploded in a spectacular and devastating eruption that killed 57 people and destroyed 200 homes, 27 bridges, and miles of railways and highway. The entire north face of the mountain exploded, sending plumes of volcanic dust into the air that prevailing winds blew across the continental United States. Thousands of animals were killed and hundreds of square miles of terrain were devastated. The area is now preserved as Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.

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