USGS Increases Mount St. Helens Volcano Alert Level
Oregon State Agencies Ready to Respond
Salem, Oregon – Just after 12:00 noon today the U.S. Geological Survey increased the alert level for Mount St. Helens. This alert level is declared when monitoring and evaluation indicate that precursory events have escalated to the point where a volcanic event with attendant volcanologic or hydrologic hazards threatening to life and property appears imminent or is underway. Depending upon further developments, a "volcano alert" will be maintained, updated, downgraded to a "volcano advisory," or canceled.
This change in the alert level has caused evacuations out to the five-mile radius from the mountain. Seismic activity continues and USGS scientists continue to monitor closely.
Governor Ted Kulongoski continues to have the State of Oregon’s Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) in a Stand-By status. Stand-By level means that the Oregon Emergency Response System’s Communications Center is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and that all state agencies stand ready to respond if necessary.
Visit the Governor’s website, www.governor.oregon.gov for more information and links to daily updates, preparedness information; and to learn more about Mt. St. Helens.
For more information:
Governor’s Office
Marian Hammond, 503-378-6169
Oregon Office of Homeland Security, Oregon Emergency Management
Ken Murphy, 503-378-2911, x 22225 or cell phone at 503-881-1750
Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries
James Roddey, 503-731-4100, x. 242 or cell phone at (503) 807-8343
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