Witness the astonishing drone footage captured by The Chronicle as they document the aftermath of a massive slide and washout that has completely shut down SR504 Spirit Lake Highway near Coldwater Lake. This popular road, used by countless travelers visiting Mt St Helens every year, has been rendered inaccessible due to the destruction caused by the slide. Prepare to be amazed as you witness the incredible sight of the vanished bridge, completely wiped out by the mudslide.
In a heart-pounding rescue mission, the King County Sheriff’s Office air support unit raced to Mount St. Helens after 12 individuals and a brave dog found themselves stranded at Johnston Ridge Observatory. Fortunately, they were successfully saved, including their furry companion.
Both directions of the Spirit Lake Highway are now closed indefinitely, with no estimated time for reopening, as confirmed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). The seasonal gate to Mount St. Helens at milepost 45 has been closed until further notice.
While the slide has no impact on the upcoming opening of Windy Ridge via Randle, the northern access point to the mountain, the sheer magnitude of the debris blocking both sides of SR-504 near Coldwater Lake raises concerns of extensive damage to the road structure. Travelers should be prepared for a prolonged closure of this scenic highway. Stay tuned for updates as we uncover the full extent of this natural disaster.
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Watch video Incredible Drone Footage: Major Slide/Washout Closes Mt St Helens Road! Bridge Vanishes! online without registration, duration hours minute second in high quality. This video was added by user The Chronicle News 16 May 2023, don't forget to share it with your friends and acquaintances, it has been viewed on our site 1,21 once and liked it 1 people.