04:53 PM PDT on Sunday, October 17, 2004

From kgw.com Staff and Wire Reports

MOUNT ST. HELENS, Wash. -- Growth of the new lava dome inside the crater of Mount St. Helens continued over the weekend, scientists said, indicating that lava remains quietly pushing into the crater.

Since last Monday, it's been building a new lobe on the lava dome at the volcano and geologists have recently observed that the stone "fin" on the lobe may be starting to split. The uplifted area is about 1,600 feet across and 400 feet high, but scientists can't determine the exact dimensions of the new structure because of steam and fumes.

The fin's precise makeup won't be known until scientists can find a way to pick up a sample for analysis. Scientists are working on a way to safely get samples of the fin.

The mountain was shrouded in fog and clouds this weekend, but brief views inside the crater from aircraft showed bright red lava glowing on the gray lava dome.

AP photo

New growth shows tinges of red and green in the Mount St. Helens crater as magma continues to push to the surface where it becomes lava.

The U.S. Geological Survey said earthquake activity has been low for the past day, but experts warn there is still a chance of an eruption at any time that could shoot ash in the air.

"Increase in the intensity of eruption could occur suddenly or with very little warning and may include explosive events that produce hazardous conditions within several miles of the volcano," the USGS said in a statement Sunday.

One sign that authorities no longer consider the volcano a large threat is that the U.S. Forest Service has reopened some roads and trails near Mount St. Helens for hunters and hikers. They include the Ape Cave and the Trail of Two Forests.

An area five miles around the volcano remains closed because of the risk of an eruption. The closure includes the Johnston Ridge Observatory.

Tourists get aerial view of volcano

Scientists aren't the only ones gettings an up-close look at the volcano. For about $100, tourists can get an aerial tour of Mount St. Helens. The tour includes a half-hour flight and some spectacular views. The aerial tour business has been booming since activity started on the mountain.

Elk relocation postponed

The risk of a Mount Saint Helens eruption is delaying plans to capture and relocate elk until next year.

Doug Williams with the Washington Fish and Wildlife Department said officials are worried about placing people and equipment too close to the volcano.

The department plans to move 50 elk from the Mount Saint Helens herd to help replenish a dwindling herd near Mount Vernon. About 50 elk were relocated last year.