Four atmospheric rivers affected the Pacific Northwest between January 27 and February 1, 2026, producing 150–300 mm (6–12 inches) of rain in the Olympic Mountains and 100–200 mm (4–8 inches) in the North Cascades. Snowfall reached up to 900 mm (36 inches) in high elevations near Mount Rainier, while snowpack remains below 50% of normal.
A swarm of hundreds of small earthquakes was detected beneath the summit of Mount Rainier, Washington, starting at 01:29 LT (08:29 UTC) on July 8, 2025, prompting increased monitoring by the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory and the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network.
New research has found magma reservoirs beneath dormant volcanoes in the Cascade Range remain intact for thousands of years, challenging the long-standing belief that magma bodies dissipate over time after eruptions and reshaping understanding of volcanic activity. Previously, large magma bodies were thought to indicate an increased likelihood of eruption, but the study suggests they are a persistent feature of volcanic systems rather than a sign of imminent activity.
Scientists from the University of Oregon have discovered a vast underground aquifer beneath Oregon’s Cascade Range, storing at least 81 km3 (19.4 mi3) of water — almost three times the maximum capacity of Lake Mead. The research detailing the findings was published on January 13, 2025, reshaping the understanding of the region’s water resources and volcanic hazards.
Mountain climbers and bloggers have posted videos on YouTube this week of dangerous rock and ice slides on Mount Rainier.The blog Mount Rainier Climbing posted a warning to fellow mountaineers on Monday. They recommend climbers avoid the Nisqually Glacier all
