Earthquake Strikes Near Mount St. Helens in Washington State

An earthquake occurred near Mount St. Helens, Washington, on Wednesday morning, recorded around 7:52 a.m. by the USGS. The quake was noted at a depth of approximately 2.2 miles, with conflicting reports on its magnitude, registering between 1.2 to 2.3. Local residents are encouraged to report their experiences on the USGS website.

On Wednesday morning, an earthquake registered near Morton, Washington, close to Mount St. Helens. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the tremor occurred at approximately 7:52 a.m., north of the volcanic site and west of Spirit Lake. Initial reports indicated that the earthquake struck at a depth of around 2.2 miles, with a magnitude initially stated as 2.3 by Earthquake Alerts, a social media account that aggregates seismic data. However, the USGS had later noted variations in magnitude, including a lower value of 1.2. Efforts to obtain further confirmation from the USGS by FOX 13 Seattle were not fruitful by the time of publication. Residents who experienced the quake are advised to report their experiences on the USGS website as part of community awareness and data gathering. This story is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.

The occurrence of earthquakes, particularly in regions like the Pacific Northwest, is closely monitored due to the area’s geological activity and risk of significant seismic events. Mount St. Helens, a well-known stratovolcano, has a history of eruptions since its last major event in 1980. The USGS plays a vital role in tracking seismic activity, providing real-time data to ensure public safety and preparedness. Understanding local earthquake dynamics is essential for communities at risk, promoting informed preparedness and response strategies.

In summary, a minor earthquake measuring between 1.2 to 2.3 in magnitude struck near Mount St. Helens on Wednesday morning. Monitoring agencies, such as the USGS, continue to assess the situation while encouraging residents to share their experiences to enhance situational awareness. The region remains vigilant in the wake of seismic activity as the story develops and further updates are anticipated from geological experts.

Original Source: www.fox13seattle.com