September 27, 2004 - 0930 Hours PDT - Mount St. Helens Earthquake Swarm Update - Due to continued small earthquakes and the occurrence of more and larger earthquakes beneath the volcano the Monument Manager has closed Mount St. Helens to climbing. The crater rim and flanks of the volcano above the 4800-foot level have been closed due to an increased potential for steam explosions from the lava dome that could propel rocks and/or ash clouds above the crater rim. Existing climbing permits have been cancelled and Jacks Restaurant and Store has stopped issuing new permits.

A number of trails in the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument have also been closed, please check the Special Conditions Report for trail closure information.

Forest officials are in close contact with USGS and the University of Washington and will post updates as needed.

For the latest information, check our Special Conditions Report for updates.