Escape From Ritzville

So back on this date in 1980, thousands of motorists trapped in Ritzville by the ash from Mt. St. Helens, attempt to make a break for it, even though all roads in and out of town are closed to due to the drifting ash.  Nearly all are forced back to the town.  The question being, were those who attempted to leave better off than those that stayed and waited.  I'd say not, I mean really would you want to return to Ritzville.