As we approach the 45th anniversary of the Mount St. Helens eruption, Oregon has declared May 18-25, 2025, as Volcano Awareness Week. This significant period, introduced by Governor Tina Kotek, serves as a memorial to the past disaster and a push towards future preparedness.
The historic eruption in 1980 inflicted catastrophic damage, resulting in 57 fatalities and $1.5 billion in losses. Given that Oregon is dotted with several active volcanoes, Governor Kotek's proclamation, highlighted in a statement obtained by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, underlines the urgency of such awareness initiatives. The OEM and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) are spearheading the campaign, teaching the public about the risks and preparation measures relevant to the active volcanic region they reside.
Oregon is no stranger to geological threats, with five potentially active volcanoes—Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Newberry Volcano, Three Sisters, and Crater Lake—looming within its domain. These geological wonders, monitored closely by the U.S. Geological Survey's National Volcano Early Warning System, signify the ever-present need for vigilance. DOGAMI, through its partnership with the Cascades Volcano Observatory, has been vital in conducting scientific analyses to better inform disaster preparedness strategies. "Oregon’s rocks record a long-lived legacy of volcanism," DOGAMI's Jason McClaughry stated in a statement reported by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.
To foster greater awareness, a series of events and initiatives will run throughout the week, including workshops, open houses, and a Reddit Ask-Me-Anything session with experts. Educational materials will be accessible, and evacuation routes and emergency response plans will be reviewed. "Preparedness saves lives," emphasized Erin McMahon, Director of OEM, speaking on the imperative nature of such measures. With the return of the Mount St. Helens webcam online after two years, citizens have renewed avenues to stay informed and ready.
In the spirit of the Be2WeeksReady campaign, residents are encouraged to amass supplies sufficient to sustain themselves for two weeks in the wake of a disaster. Key tips for volcanic hazard preparedness include knowledge of local dangers, staying informed through alerts, and having an evacuation plan. Detailed resources and up-to-date information can be found on OEM and DOGAMI's websites, with further guidance available from the U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards page. The emphasis on practical readiness over panic ensures communities can stand resilient in the face of nature's volatility.
