Mt St Helens

Question 1

What was the population living near Mount St Helens in 1980?

Answer 1

2.5 million

This population was affected by the volcanic activity.

Question 2

What was the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of Mount St Helens in 1980?

Answer 2

5

This indicates a significant explosive eruption.

Question 3

What were the impacts of lahars from Mount St Helens?

Answer 3

Destroyed over 200 homes, 27 bridges, 185 miles of road

Lahars are volcanic mudflows that can cause extensive damage.

Question 4

How did the lahars affect the ecosystem around Mount St Helens?

Answer 4

Killed all fish life and over 7,000 big animals, e.g., elk

This highlights the severe ecological impact of the eruption.

Question 5

What magnitude earthquake was caused shortly after the Mount St Helens eruption?

Answer 5

4.2

This earthquake was a direct result of the volcanic activity.

Question 6

How many people were killed as a result of the Mount St Helens eruption?

Answer 6

57

This tragic loss of life underscores the eruption’s destructive power.