Mount St. Helens Eruption: Remembering the Historic 1980 Event

MT. ST. HELENS, Wash. — May 18 marks 45 years since Mount St. Helens erupted, changing the landscape and history of Washington’s Cascade Range. At 8:32 a.m. on this day in 1980, a magnitude 5.1 earthquake triggered a massive landslide on the volcano’s north side.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported that this landslide, the largest recorded in history, removed a significant portion of the mountain, causing it to erupt. In just moments, the volcano’s height dropped from 9,677 feet to 8,364 feet.

As the eruption unfolded, a smoke plume rose more than 60,000 feet into the air, visible even from space. It cast a shadow over the Pacific Northwest, leaving an indelible mark on the environment and the community.

The eruption claimed 57 lives and devastated local wildlife, including countless animals, birds, and fish. Buildings and vehicles were buried under ash, which continued to fall for weeks, transforming the region.

Despite the tragedy, the event also showcased human resilience. Rescue crews worked tirelessly to save lives, while photographers and journalists documented the unfolding disaster. Researchers gained valuable insights into volcanic activity, and the local community came together to support those affected.

Today, the memory of the eruption lives on, serving as a reminder of nature’s power and humanity’s spirit in the face of adversity.