This critically acclaimed video blends dramatic eyewitness accounts with the most current analysis of what we've learned from Mount St. Helens. A fascinating journal of remembrance and discovery, it tells the story of what really happened at one of the greatest natural disasters of our time. 

Spectacular Disaster Footage 
From the mountain's sudden, deadly explosion of hot gas and rock, to the devastating aftermath of its torrential mudflows, the eruption of Mount St. Helens is the most thoroughly documented volcanic event in history. On May 18, 1980, 250 square miles of pristine forest were decimated, millions of wildlife perished and over sixty human lives were lost. This video will hold you spellbound with a dynamic collection of the most dramatic footage from 1980 ever assembled in one program. 

Dramatic Reenactments 
Running for their lives, deafened by the volcano's roar and choking from 400 degree gases were three survivors who saw, felt and tasted the wrath of this volcano, which was 2000 times larger than the power of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. They bring the terrifying power of Mount St. Helens into human focus. Through dramatic reenactments of their near-death experiences, you'll relive the horror of being caught in this volcano's unleashed fury, and experience the hope and faith brought by their miraculous rescues. Featuring filmmaker Michael Lienau's personal story of survival. 

Science Comes to Life with Special Effects 
Special animation techniques turn dry scientific explanation into understandable visual concepts. Explore the sizzling anatomy of an active volcano with scientific information made exciting and dramatic. 3D computer animation takes us on a realistic journey through the core of a living volcano to discover the source of its destructive power. 

Coping with Chaos in Our Own Backyard 
Mount St. Helens is only one in a chain of over 2,000 active and unpredictable volcanoes, mounts of fire that smolder silently, threatening hundreds of thousands of people at any given moment. In this riveting remembrance of Mount St. Helens, you'll experience the dangers and wonders of THE FIRE BELOW US. 

Hosted by Grant Goodeve
Television star Grant Goodeve, of "Eight is Enough" and "Northern Exposure" is a compelling, dramatic host. 

An Eyewitness Perspective 
Filmmaker Michael Lienau shares his personal story of survival. He is joined by other witnesses in this never-before-told account of faith and survival from those who lived through the mountain's fury. 

An Award Winner 
Awarded the Emerald City Awards Silver Prize for Documentary by the International Television and Video Association (ITVA), a  Silver Apple Award for high achievement in educational filmmaking, a Communicator Award, a CINE Golden Eagle Award as evidence of its suitability to represent American productions in international film festivals and a Conservation/Natural History, Two Star Film/Video Award from the National Outdoor Writers Association.