Experts Warn of Impending Eruption Threatening Pacific Northwest Communities

Experts warn that Mount Rainier, one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the U.S., poses a significant threat to the Pacific Northwest, particularly due to the risk of lahars—fast-moving mudflows that can devastate communities without warning. Although Mount Rainier has not erupted in over 1,000 years, its potential for a catastrophic eruption remains a concern, especially given that surrounding cities like Tacoma and Seattle are built on ancient mudflows from past eruptions. Lahars can be triggered not only by volcanic eruptions but also by heavy rainfall that destabilizes the slopes. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has highlighted that approximately 20% of all volcano-related deaths are caused by lahars, citing past incidents like the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. In response to these threats, the Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO) has installed monitoring stations to provide real-time updates on volcanic activity in the region. Overall, the danger of lahars and the need for preparedness are pressing issues for the communities at risk in the Pacific Northwest.