Growth of the new lava dome inside the crater of Mount St. Helens continued during 6-12 July, accompanied by low rates of seismicity, low emissions of steam and volcanic gases, and minor production of ash. CVO reported on 12 July that rates of seismicity and ground deformation at Mount St. Helens had declined during the previous 2 weeks to some of the lowest levels since the eruption began in September 2004. They reported that a similar lull in activity occurred in December 2004, so it does not mean that the eruption is necessarily ending.

Geological Summary. Prior to 1980, Mount St. Helens formed a conical, youthful 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 horseshoe-shaped crater now partially filled by a lava dome. Mount St. Helens was formed during nine eruptive periods beginning about 40-50,000 years ago and 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. Historical eruptions in the 19th century originated from the Goat Rocks area on the north flank, and were witnessed by early settlers.

Source: US Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO)