Logo
    Search

    When Mount St. Helens Blew Its Top

    enJanuary 05, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • Exploring Exceptional Experiences: Capital One Venture X Card & Purdue GlobalThe Capital One Venture X Card offers unlimited 2X miles on purchases and premium travel perks, while Purdue Global empowers adults to earn degrees flexibly. Enjoying high-quality butter, like Carrabassett Farm's Carry Gold, adds joy to everyday life. Personal experiences with significant events, like the Mount St. Helens eruption, shape our perspectives.

      The Capital One Venture X Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, premium travel benefits like airport lounge access and a $300 annual credit for bookings, making everyday purchases feel extraordinary. Simultaneously, Purdue Global provides adults with an opportunity to earn a respected degree and take charge of their career and life through flexible online education. During the podcast, the hosts shared their appreciation for high-quality butter, specifically Carrabassett Farm's Carry Gold, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the little things in life. The discussion also touched on their personal experiences with the eruption of Mount St. Helens and its impact, acknowledging that while it may have been a regional event, it was a significant one for those directly involved or with a professional interest in volcanology.

    • Formation of Mount St. Helens due to subduction and magma build-upMount St. Helens, formed by subduction, had no cracks for magma to escape, causing pressure build-up and two bulges before a historic 1980 eruption. This event led to extensive research and numerous similar volcanoes in the Cascade Arc.

      Mount St. Helens, a stratovolcano in the Pacific Northwest, is unique because it formed when one younger plate was subducted under an older plate, leading to the creation of a large magma chamber. Normally, the magma finds cracks in the crust to escape and build the mountain. However, when there's no crack, the magma builds up pressure and causes the mountain to bulge. This happened with Mount St. Helens, which experienced two bulges, or cryptodomes, before erupting in 1980. The event drew numerous researchers due to its predictability and became the most well-documented volcanic eruption in history. The Cascade Arc, where Mount St. Helens is located, has produced many similar volcanoes due to the geological activity in the area.

    • Ancient Eruption of Mount St. Helens Left Lasting ImpactMount St. Helens, known for 1980 eruption, had a larger one 4,000 years ago, leaving thick tephra that extends into British Columbia.

      Mount St. Helens in the Pacific Northwest is not only known for its catastrophic eruption in 1980 but also for a much larger eruption that occurred approximately 4,000 years ago. This ancient eruption left a thick layer of volcanic ash and debris, known as tephra, which extends up into British Columbia and is still 20 inches thick 62 miles away from the mountain. The Puyallup people, among other indigenous tribes in the area, have passed down stories of this enormous eruption for generations. Despite the long history of volcanic activity, no one assumed that Mount St. Helens was "done" before its 1980 eruption. In fact, there were documented eruptions in the 19th century. The name "Mount St. Helens" was given by European explorers in 1792, even though the man after whom it was named, Alan Fitzherbert, never actually saw the mountain. Some argue that the mountain should be named after the famous volcanic firetender woman, Louwitt, and the men who fought for her, as per indigenous legends.

    • Online platforms for kids and adultsZigazoo offers a safe online environment for kids with moderated videos and parental consent, while Airbnb allows adults to earn extra income by sharing resources

      Zigazoo is a social media platform designed specifically for kids, which prioritizes data safety and is certified KidSafe Kappa. Despite initial reservations, the parent in this discussion feels great about her kids using Zigazoo due to its moderated videos, absence of comments or messaging, and parental consent requirement. Meanwhile, for adults, opportunities to make extra money exist through platforms like Airbnb, which allows hosting of spare rooms or entire homes during events or when away. In the past, experts had predicted the eruption of Mount St. Helens, which became a national forest in 1949, and its eventual eruption in 1980 led to significant scientific research. These examples show that there are safe spaces for kids online and opportunities for adults to earn extra income through sharing resources.

    • The 1980 Mount St. Helens Eruption: Balancing Warnings and DesireDespite warnings, some chose to stay during the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, raising ethical questions. Coordination between scientists, officials, and the public ultimately saved lives, but premature reopening pressures remained.

      During the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, there was a mix of people who heeded warnings and evacuated, and those who chose to stay despite the risks. Volcanologists like David Johnston and Don Swanson sounded the alarm, but faced resistance from some residents and corporations. Harry Truman, the lodge owner, became a folk hero for his defiance, but his decision to stay with his cats raised ethical questions. The event saw unprecedented coordination between scientists, government officials, and the public, ultimately saving thousands of lives. However, even after the evacuation, there was pressure to reopen the area prematurely. The eruption coincided with a mineral and gem show in Yakima, bringing many geology enthusiasts to the area. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding warnings and balancing the desire to stay with the potential consequences.

    • Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption: A reminder of volcanic power and unpredictabilityDespite warnings and constant activity, 57 people lost their lives due to the lateral explosion of Mount St. Helens in 1980, highlighting the unpredictability of volcanic eruptions.

      The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens was a significant event with multiple warning signs leading up to the major explosion. Despite constant upheaval, mudslides, avalanches, and crater growth, some people were allowed to return to their homes, resulting in 57 casualties. The explosion was not typical, as it occurred laterally instead of from the top of the volcano. Researchers David Johnson and Don Swanson, who were stationed near the volcano, had been warned and evacuated before the eruption. The event was a reminder of the power and unpredictability of volcanic activity.

    • Mount St. Helens eruption caused by landslide, not top explosionThe 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption was not a typical volcanic explosion from the top, but was triggered by an earthquake causing a landslide, leading to magma release and a lateral blast

      The eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 was not caused by the volcano exploding from the top as is commonly imagined. Instead, it was triggered by an earthquake that caused the largest landslide in recorded history, which in turn led to the magma's release. The pressure from the magma, which was heated beyond its boiling point but couldn't turn into steam due to lack of space, built up on the mountain's north side, creating a bulge. When the north side of the mountain suddenly collapsed due to the earthquake-induced landslide, the magma was released, causing a lateral blast that was as violent as imagined. Witnesses described the event as the north half of the mountain becoming like fluid and sliding away, leaving them in awe. The event was well-documented due to the presence of geologists in the area at the time, who were able to capture the unfolding disaster from a unique perspective.

    • The 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption was unprecedented in power and speedThe 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption released 24 megatons of energy, destroyed 8-mile radius, and caused massive landslides, mudslides, and lahars.

      The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens was not a typical volcanic eruption. It was a catastrophic event that released 24 megatons of energy, 1,600 times more powerful than the Hiroshima atomic bomb. The north side of the mountain, where pressure had been released due to an earthquake, was hit with a fast-moving cloud of heat and stones traveling at 300 miles per hour. Everything within eight miles was destroyed, including people and structures. The blast also triggered a massive landslide, causing flooding, mudslides, and lahars (mudslides on steroids), carrying rocks as large as 558 feet across. The aftermath included the vaporization of those who were too close, such as David Johnston and a ham radio operator, and the destruction of entire forests and ecosystems. The power and speed of this eruption were unprecedented, making it a stark reminder of the destructive forces of nature.

    • Natural disasters and their environmental impactsNatural disasters can cause significant damage to the environment and communities, leading to increased lake levels, reduced heights of mountains, and opportunities for new developments like amphitheaters.

      Natural disasters like the eruption of Mount St. Helens can have devastating effects on the environment and communities. The eruption caused the lake at its base to expand and become shallower, damaging over 200 homes, cabins, and infrastructure. The lake's elevation increased by about 200 feet, and Mount St. Helens' height was reduced significantly. Social media, specifically Zigazoo, can provide a safe and fun platform for kids to share content and interact with each other. Homeowners can also make extra money by renting out their homes or extra rooms on Airbnb during events or tournaments. Dell TechFest offers anniversary savings on tech products, providing access to advanced technology and free shipping. And finally, the aftermath of the Mount St. Helens eruption led to the creation of an amphitheater-like landscape.

    • Studying a Volcano's Past Through the 1980 Mount St. Helens EruptionThe 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption provided scientists with insights into geology, ecology, and volcanic ash-related issues, while smaller organisms and ecosystems contributed to the quick rebound of the ecosystem.

      The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens provided scientists with a unique opportunity to study the inner workings of a volcano, revealing valuable insights into geology and ecology. The lateral blast opened up a cross-section of the mountain, allowing researchers to learn from its past history. Despite the devastation, smaller organisms and ecosystems survived, contributing to the quick rebound of the ecosystem. The ash cloud, which reached 80,000 feet into the air and circled the globe, led to the groundwork for understanding and dealing with future volcanic ash-related issues, including their impact on air travel. The eruption also caused the Columbia and Kowlitz Rivers to reroute, creating a scene reminiscent of a logging operation. Amidst the chaos, a pair of high school sweethearts had a harrowing experience, but managed to survive.

    • The 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption: A reminder of nature's power and the importance of scientific studyThe 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption caused significant damage but also brought out human resilience, led to extensive research and study, and the area has largely bounced back.

      The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens was a catastrophic event that claimed lives and caused significant damage to the surrounding area. However, it also brought out the human spirit and resilience as people managed to survive. The eruption was well-documented and led to extensive research and study of the volcano. Since then, Mount St. Helens has experienced occasional activity, but the pressure is being released more gradually. There is ongoing research and study at the site, and the USGS has even opened a research station nearby. The eruption led to the growth of a new lava dome, which can be observed through time-lapse footage on platforms like YouTube. Despite the potential for future eruptions, the area has largely bounced back, with Spirit Lake reopening and a memorial honoring those who lost their lives. The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of scientific research and study.

    • Discovering the true meaning of 'strangers in the beverage'Exploring the origins of language can lead to fascinating discoveries and a deeper understanding of the world.

      The phrase "strangers in the beverage" from the poem in question does not refer to strangers in the literal sense, but rather to tea leaves floating in a cup of tea. These tea leaves were believed to be omens, and by interpreting their shapes and characteristics, people could predict whether they would meet a new male or female acquaintance and potentially even the date of the encounter. This fascinating discovery was made by a dedicated listener, Nat Jacobs, who delved deep into the meaning of Scottish dialect to uncover the truth behind this intriguing phrase. This just goes to show the importance of exploring the origins and meanings of language, as it can lead to fascinating discoveries and a deeper understanding of the world around us. If you're interested in uncovering more interesting facts and insights, be sure to tune in to Stuff You Should Know or check out Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs podcast. And if you're a parent looking for a safe and age-appropriate social media platform for your kids, consider checking out Zigazoo.

    Recent Episodes from Stuff You Should Know

    Selects: How Restaurant Health Inspections Work

    Selects: How Restaurant Health Inspections Work

    If you've ever worked in a restaurant, you know the feeling that occurs when the health inspector pays a visit. While nerve wracking, it's the best insurance patrons have that their food will be prepared and served in a proper environment. Learn all about how these inspections work, from their past history to current incarnation, in this classic episode.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enJune 29, 2024

    Whistling!

    Whistling!

    Whistling is pretty cool when you think about it because it can mean many things, from simple happy tunes to legit communication. Learn all about this ubiquitous skill today. 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enJune 25, 2024

    The Big Episode on Wikipedia

    The Big Episode on Wikipedia

    Wikipedia changed the world. Before it came along, you had to go to the library to get the answers you sought. And you and your friends had to just agree to disagree on facts. And as the internet grew and commercialized, Wikipedia remains free and open.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Stuff You Should Know
    enJune 20, 2024

    Related Episodes

    Volcanic Eruption and Lava Flow

    Volcanic Eruption and Lava Flow

    An understanding of the structure, composition and processes involved in erupting volcanoes and the ways lava flow can help better mitigate the effects of these environmental hazards. Our guest is Stephan Kolzenburg, assistant professor at the University at Buffalo, who joins us to share what makes volcanoes active, how researchers study lava flow in the field and ways to study it from a lab.

    Did volcanoes help kill off the dinosaurs?

    Did volcanoes help kill off the dinosaurs?

    Earth formed over 4.5 billion years ago. We should take a moment to realise how much history that is! Volcanoes are just one of Earth’s creations that have stood the test of time and on this Big Questions podcast we want to know: did volcanoes help kill off the dinosaurs?

    To find out the answer we visited the Department of Earth Sciences at The University of Oxford to visit Professor Tamsin Mather to find out! Listen here….

    Changing landscapes: telling stories from Antarctica against a backdrop of climate change and an evolving media | Athena Dinar | British Antarctic Survey

    Changing landscapes: telling stories from Antarctica against a backdrop of climate change and an evolving media | Athena Dinar | British Antarctic Survey

    Athena Dinar is Deputy Head of Communications at the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) where she’s spent over two decades conveying the captivating magic of Antarctica and the vital research scientists carry out there. 

    In this episode of Research Comms, Athena speaks with us about the shifting narratives surrounding the climate crisis and how digital media has transformed the communications landscape, as well as unpacking BAS’s endeavours to reduce its own carbon footprint while striving towards solutions to preserve the southernmost continent, as well as the wider world.

    Episode 26: How can biomass crops improve the environment?

    Episode 26: How can biomass crops improve the environment?

    Biomass crops, like switchgrass and miscanthus, are used for agriculture products and biofuel production. These crops can improve soil health while removing carbon dioxide from the air. Sowthini Vijayakumar, a PhD candidate in the School of Environmental Sciences, is trying to find a practical solution to decrease atmospheric carbon through the conversion of agricultural land to biomass crops. She joins E’layna and Tahlia on the podcast to discuss her research in this area.

    Climate Change, Migration and Environmental Refugees

    Climate Change, Migration and Environmental Refugees

    As the science of climate change becomes increasingly well understood, the ramifications of projected increases in temperature, changes to rainfall patterns, rises in sea-level and increase in extreme weather events require attention from policy-makers worldwide. This is particularly apparent in relation to migration, refugees and international security, with climate change acting as a threat multiplier to exacerbate existing tensions and instability.

    The Institute of Environmental Studies, in conjunction with the Climate Change Research Centre, the Faculty of Law and the Refugee Council of Australia held a public forum at UNSW on these very issues featuring Professor Andy Pitman, Dr Jane McAdam and Anna Samson.

    Visit http://www.ies.unsw.edu.au/ for more details.