Seismicity, SO₂ emission, and deformation remained at background levels. Maximum displacement rates on the dome were 1-2 mm/day, and SO₂ emissions continued to decline, averaging 28 ± 5 t/d in July, compared to 45 t/d in late June. No vigorous gas emissions from the dome have been observed since mid-May.

Geological Summary. Prior to 1980, Mount St. Helens was a conical volcano sometimes known as the Fujisan of America. During the 1980 eruption the upper 400 m of the summit was removed by slope failure, leaving a 2 x 3.5 km breached crater now partially filled by a lava dome. There have been nine major eruptive periods beginning about 40-50,000 years ago, and it has been the most active volcano in the Cascade Range during the Holocene. Prior to 2,200 years ago, tephra, lava domes, and pyroclastic flows were erupted, forming the older edifice, but few lava flows extended beyond the base of the volcano. The modern edifice consists of basaltic as well as andesitic and dacitic products from summit and flank vents. Eruptions in the 19th century originated from the Goat Rocks area on the N flank, and were witnessed by early settlers.

Information Contacts: D. Swanson, S. Brantley, USGS CVO, Vancouver, WA; C. Jonientz-Trisler, University of Washington.