Strong winds across parts of Washington state have kicked up volcanic ash deposited during the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, creating hazy conditions and reducing air quality.
The phenomenon, known as ash resuspension, occurs when dry, loose ash is lifted back into the air by gusty winds, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The vicinity of Mount St. Helens has been experiencing persistently dry weather and is currently facing severe drought conditions.
Mount Saint Helens erupts, May 18, 1980, in Washington State.
John T. Barr/Getty Images
Commercial pilots in the area have reported the resuspended ash, which the USGS warns should be considered hazardous due to its potential to damage aircraft and impact human health.
This phenomenon occasionally occurs during times of strong winds and dry, snow-free conditions in the Mount St. Helens area.
Mount St. Helens is seen in a webcam, Sept. 16, 2025.
USGS
Both the USGS and the National Weather Service have reiterated that this is not the result of recent volcanic activity.
“Mt. Saint Helens is NOT erupting,” the NWS posted to X on Tuesday afternoon. “Volcanic Ash from the 1980s is being lofted back into the air from the strong east winds.”
The volcano alert level at Mount St. Helens is currently at “Normal” or “Code Green,” according to the USGS.
