Riding with Volcanoes

The drive we did yesterday, from Washington State to Oregon, on Interstate 5 that leads all the way to California, can be a bit dull. But volcanoes keep things interesting.

We start with Mount Rainier, our neighbor. I feel like I know every detail of the side I get to see everyday wherever I go. I notice the change of seasons with the levels of snow that never goes completely away from its top.

When driving South, Mount St Helen appears fast. Its depressed crater is a reminder that in 1980, it erupted in a disastrous way.

Then, when in Oregon, Mt Hood and its pointy summit is next to be seen.

Those volcanoes are part of the chain of Cascades and disseminated from Canada to the north of California.

The most dangerous one, according to scientists, is probably Mount Rainier, as it is located so close to Seattle and Tacoma. This volcano is also covered with glaciers that would melt if it erupted. 

Even with a simple leak of hot water, the melting snow and ice would create a lahar, a flow of mud thick like cement that would be extremely dangerous.  

We live in the shadow of the volcano.

Authorities recommend that everyone has an emergency plan ready, just in case. Still, it is difficult to see this so familiar mountain otherwise than a breath-taking  view intended to remain unchanged.