[microbet]

I lived about 60 miles away and was in Jr. High.

It was no where near the scale of what is happening now. Mt. St. Helens wasn't a very populated area and they knew an eruption was coming. Most of the few people that lived in the area evacuated before it happened.

There was considerable property damage, but nothing even remotely like what is happening in New Orleans.

Our Moms made us all wear masks when we went outside because people were worried the ash was carcinogenic.

I don't believe there was any looting, if that is what you are getting at.

edit: Oh yeah, and it was absolutely awesome to see.