Volcanic Hazards:

Mount Saint Helens Case Study

The Scenario:

You are the Governor of Washington State. Mount Saint Helens has begun to rumble and geologists have taken serious notice of the unrest. Mt. St. Helens has been showing recognized signs of activity since early March and the experts are beginning to push for evacuation and establishment of a "red zone" around the mountain. It is up to you to decide if, when and where to establish that "red zone."

Your Job:

This exercise should only take about 45 minutes to an hour, so make sure you watch your time!

• Read through the literature:

  You must do your research! It is essential to understand the geology and eruption tendency of Mt. St. Helens in order to make a sound decision of where to place the "red zone."
• Make a decision where the "red zone" should be and trace it on to your tracing paper. You can do it is pencil first, by you must commit and finalize your decision in RED pen!
• So, you have made your decision of where to place the "red zone," now you have to defend it! You are asked to give a press conference concerning your decision on the extent of the "red zone:" list the evidence you used to make your decision. You speech writer will use this in your press conference speech, so make sure you are clear!
• You are also asked why you choose to establish a "red zone" now. Your speech writer thinks it is important to include that information in your press conference speech. Write another list defending the timing of evacuation and establishment of the "red zone."

Helpful Links:

Cascade Volcano Observatory

Cascade Volcano Observatory; Mt. St. Helens

Mt. St. Helens National Monument

Volcano World; Mt. St. Helens

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