Nov 9, 2016 · Volcano hazard map showing the extent of lahar hazards in towns and valleys surrounding Mt. Rainier in Washington. Image credit: USGS

Large lahars (volcanic mudflows) from eruptions and from collapses of this massive, heavily glaciated andesitic volcano have reached as far as the Puget Sound lowlands. Since the last ice age, several dozen explosive eruptions spread tephra (ash, pumice) across parts of Washington.

Nov 8, 2023 · This map shows areas that could be affected by debris flows, lahars, lava flows, and pyroclastic flows from Mount Rainier if events similar in size to past events occurred today. Because small lahars are more common than large ones, most lahars would be less extensive than the hazard zone shown on the map and a few would be more extensive.

Nov 8, 2023 · Because of its elevation (4,392 m), relief, hydrothermal alteration, icecap, glacier-fed radial valleys, and proximity to encroaching suburbs of the Seattle-Tacoma metropolis, Mount Rainier is the most threatening volcano in the Cascades.

Nov 7, 2023 · Map shows simplified geology of Mount Rainier volcano, Washington. Ka indicates thousands of years before present. (Public domain.)

There are two craters on Mount Rainier that emanate steam and seem to avoid erosion from glaciation, symbolizing a youthful and active volcano with potential of future volcanic eruptions. The volcanism that formed the Mount Rainier we see today ties to …

Nov 8, 2023 · Mount Rainier is an active volcano of the Cascade Range in Washington State, 50-70 km (30-44 mi) southeast of the Seattle–Tacoma metropolitan area. Volcanism occurs at Mount Rainier and other Cascades arc volcanoes because of the subduction of the Juan de Fuca Plate off the western coast of North America.

Majestic Mount Rainier soars almost 3 miles (14,410 feet) above sea level and looms over the expanding suburbs of Seattle and Tacoma, Washington. Each year almost two million visitors come to Mount Rainier National Park to admire the volcano and its glaciers, alpine meadows, and forested ridges.

Map showing potential hazards from future eruptions of Mount Rainier, Washington

Nov 4, 2023 · The greatest hazard from Mount Rainier is from lahars, also known as volcanic mudflows or debris flows. Areas inundated by past lahars are now densely populated and contain important infrastructure such as highways, bridges, ports, and pipelines.