The problems with Washington’s Glacier Peak volcano

One of five active volcanoes in Washington state is so remote that monitoring is limited.

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Seth Moran, the scientists-in-charge at the Cascades Volcano Observatory, told KIRO Radio there is a “pretty decent” understanding of Glacier Peak’s eruption history. However, there is only one seismic monitoring station on the volcano. The nearest station to that is 15 to 20 miles away.

Ideally, Moran says, there would be more than that. And rightly so.

Though Glacier Peak, located east of Darington and north of Highway 2, is remote, it has generated some of the most explosive eruptions in the past 15,000 years. Even a small eruption could send ash 30,000 feet into the air and create lahars that could severely impact transportation corridors and nearby towns.

Improved monitoring would increase the chances of knowing when an eruption is imminent. Which is why the USGS has its collective fingers crossed that the Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring Bill passed by the Senate is approved by Congress. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Maria Cantwell, would provide $55 million over five years to improve the nation’s monitoring capabilities.

“This bill connects needed volcano monitoring systems in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Washingtonians remember the impact the Mt. St. Helens eruption had on our communities 38 years ago,” Sen.Cantwell said. “Our state has five of the highest threat volcanoes in the nation, and as we’re seeing in Hawaii right now, these volcanoes are a persistent and serious threat. The safety of our communities is paramount, and our legislation will ensure we have the science, technology, and monitoring needed to keep people informed and safe.”

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Still, Glacier Peak’s remote location, steep topography, and lack of good road access would make even a well-funded project difficult to build out. Essentially, crews are forced to hike in whenever work is needed.

“It’s a priority place for us and we will hopefully be able to work at the current pace or even faster…” Moran told KIRO Radio.

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