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MOUNT HOOD, Ore. — Scientists are monitoring an unusually big meltwater pond on Oregon’s Mount Hood. A sudden release from the pond could send a torrent of water, mud and debris toward a major highway.
Scientists Monitor an Enlarged Pond and its Potential Debris-Flow Route
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) discovered the enlarged seasonal pond during a routine helicopter observation flight on October 6. In its October 23 update, the agency estimated that the pond could contain around 50,000 cubic meters of water — about the equivalent of 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
The pond is near Coalman Glacier in a basin surrounded by steep cliffs, volcanic rock, and a natural barrier known as Devil’s Kitchen. Scientists say the barrier currently appears stable, but are taking further measurements to assess the pond’s volume and surrounding terrain.
If the water were released suddenly, it could generate a debris flow down the White River, potentially reaching the Highway 35 bridge. The terrain would stop the flow from traveling toward the Sandy River, Timberline, or Government Camp.
The potential flow is not expected to threaten populated areas. The U.S. Forest Service, National Weather Service and other agencies are working with the USGS to assess the situation, but currently, the volcano remains at its normal level of background activity.
Past Debris Flows Have Damaged Mount Hood Roads and Bridges
In the past, Mount Hood’s steep slopes and glacial terrain have produced damaging debris flows. The USGS indicated that intense rainfall and sudden releases of glacier water can trigger these fast-moving mixtures of water, rock, and sediment without a volcanic eruption.
On Christmas Day 1980, heavy rain triggered a landslide at Polallie Creek on Mount Hood’s eastern flank. The landslide developed into a debris flow that temporarily blocked the East Fork Hood River. When the obstruction broke about 12 minutes later, the resulting flood destroyed approximately six miles of Oregon Highway 35. The disaster caused $13 million in damage in 1980 dollars and killed one person.
Scientists are monitoring the current pond, with further updates expected as conditions warrant.
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