What was the cause of the ash swirling around Mt. Helens?

The cause of the ash swirling around Mt. Helens is related to strong eastern winds. During the eruption of Mount St. Helens, the powerful explosive activity released vast amounts of ash and volcanic debris into the atmosphere. These materials are susceptible to being carried by the wind. When strong eastern winds were present, they effectively dispersed the ash clouds over a wide area, leading to the phenomenon of ash swirling around the mountain. This explains how atmospheric conditions played a crucial role in the movement and distribution of volcanic ash following the eruption. The interaction between volcanic activity and prevailing weather patterns is vital to understanding the impact of the eruption on the surrounding environment.