Copyright Information: All images are in the public domain and available for free. If you use this image, credit NOAA/NGDC, Department of Natural Resources, State of Washington. |
This small crater west of Spirit Lake was formed by a phreatic explosion. Hot volcanic debris came in contact with water or moist ground and steam explosions resulted. Note smaller craters near large crater. The photo was taken on June 18, 1980, one month after the major eruption. Image Credit: Department of Natural Resources, State of Washington May 18, 1980 Mount Saint Helens USA volcano An earthquake occurred at 15 32 UT, only seconds before the explosion that began the eruption of Mount St. Helens volcano. This eruption and blast blew off the top of the volcano, reducing its elevation by 396 meters, killed 31 people and caused an estimated property damage of between $0.5 billion and $2 billion. About 53 earthquakes having magnitude larger than 4.5 were located near Mount St. Helens before the main event and eruption. No earthquakes having magnitudes higher than 4.5 were located following the eruption. |
|
