Scientists predict that Mount Rainier could erupt again, but no definite year or century is given. So we may have time to forestall most damages. If that mountain should collapse, dumping cubic miles of ice and snow into molten lava, they predict a vast mud flow on to low lands between Seattle and Tacoma, that are highly developed.
I propose an escape hatch that would endure for centuries, if the steep north wall of the volcano collapses, it would release into the Green River.
We should excavate from Green River gorge to north of Auburn, a straight, deep and lined channel to the West Hill. From there bore two or more tunnels to terminate in deep water of Puget Sound. Tunnels lined with reinforced concrete, to endure for centuries.
Have a gate to allow normal drainage north to Seattle, but closed in case of a normal flood or mud flow. The steep gradient where swift current would take most of the mud to the ocean.
The plan would keep mud out of Seattle and Tacoma harbors and out of homes, stores, basements and warehouses and factories in the low valley areas.
Although this is an expensive plan, it could be only 5 percent of the potential damages if mud and flood is allowed to follow the meandering, long, traditional route!
Near the entrance of the tunnels, have a grating on elevated cables, so a clam shell grapple could prevent log jams from plugging the tunnels.
I intend to mail copies of my plan to state, local and county officials.
Henry C. Towne
Kent
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