description David A. Johnston Overview
David A. Johnston was an American volcanologist with the United States Geological Survey (USGS). He was killed during the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980, while manning an observation post about six miles from the volcano.
Johnston was the first to report the eruption, famously radioing his last words before being overwhelmed by the lateral blast. The USGS David A. Johnston Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver, Washington, was later named in his honor.
help David A. Johnston FAQ
What were David Johnston's last words at Mount St. Helens?
On May 18, 1980, his final radio transmission was 'Vancouver! Vancouver! This is it!' as the eruption began. He was the first to radio that the volcano was erupting.
Where was David Johnston stationed when Mount St. Helens erupted?
He was manning a USGS observation post about six miles north of the volcano, called Coldwater II. The post was considered to be outside the main danger zone, but the massive lateral blast reached it anyway.
How old was David Johnston when he died?
He was 30 years old when he was killed on May 18, 1980. He was a volcanologist with the United States Geological Survey.
What is named after volcanologist David Johnston?
The USGS David A. Johnston Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver, Washington, is named in his honor. The observatory monitors volcanoes throughout the Cascade Range, including Mount St. Helens.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
