PORTLAND, Ore. – Strong easterly winds blew volcanic ash from Mount St. Helens to nearby Washington state communities Sunday, causing some to wonder if the volcano had erupted again.

Leftover ash from previous eruptions was picked up by sustained 25 mph winds and gusts of 40 mph after a lot of warm, dry weather.

The warning was announced about the ash to communities west of the 8,300-foot peak, especially to those with respiratory problems.

(The Associated Press contributed to this story)