Lessons Learned

The eruption of Mt. St. Helens was the first chance modern volcanoligst had to accurately observe and record a major volcanic eruptions. The volcanoligsts used computers, a relatively new technology, along with older surveying techniques, satellite and spy plane imagery to accurately record Mt. St. Helens before after and during the eruption. The combined efforts of observation of scientists and recreational hikers, has enabled scientist to accurately understand all of the eruption, this thorough understanding has contributed greatly to the understanding of volcanoes, and uncovered some lesser known facts, while disproving old theories.

The giant debris avalanche of Mt. St. Helens, left hummocky deposits to the north of the volcano. Similar deposits had been found near other volcanoes around the world, until the eruption of Mt. St. Helens Volconoligists did not understand how these deposits formed, in light of this new information over 400 sites of prehistoric debris avalanches have been recognized.

The collapse of volcano flanks and summits is now seen as common rather than rare.

Scientists know the complex number of deadly phenomenon that a volcanic eruption can trigger. From massive avalanches, to lahars and pyroclastic flows.

The threat that water, snow and ice poses to areas, which are down river, form a volcano. Since an eruption releases violent quantities of heat which instantly transform snow to steam and water, creating massive mudflows which threaten communities' miles from the volcano.

Mount St. Helens allowed scientists to test theories and develop new monitoring techniques.

The effect of ash and other volcanic debris had on jet aircraft, electronics, crops and human health was observed.

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