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Mount St. Helens Ash Stirring Concerns, Experts Clarify Not New Eruption

Mount St. Helens Ash Stirring Concerns, Experts Clarify Not New Eruption

World | 9/17/2025

Mount St. Helens, known for its catastrophic eruption in 1980, stirred up concerns on Tuesday as a plume resembling volcanic activity was observed. However, experts quickly clarified that this was not a new eruption but rather a re-suspension of old ash lingering from the historic event 45 years ago. The sight, reminiscent of the devastating blast, raised temporary alarm but was met with reassurance from geological authorities.

The event, while evoking memories of the volcano’s violent past, does not indicate an imminent eruption. According to seismologists, the recent activity is attributed to strong winds disturbing the ash deposits from the 1980 explosion. This phenomenon serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of the eruption, which radically transformed the surrounding landscape and remains a prominent chapter in the region’s geological history.

A White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted the importance of distinguishing between actual volcanic activity and harmless re-suspension of ash. The official emphasized the need for accurate information dissemination to prevent unnecessary panic among residents and visitors in the vicinity of Mount St. Helens.

While the sight of Mount St. Helens stirring up ash may evoke concern, experts assert that this event is a natural occurrence and not a precursor to a volcanic eruption. Residents and tourists are advised to stay informed through reliable sources to avoid misinformation and unnecessary alarm. The reawakening of ash from the past serves as a geological spectacle rather than a cause for immediate alarm, showcasing the enduring legacy of one of the most significant volcanic events in recent history.