Date: July 23, 2024
A small hydrothermal explosion rocked the Yellowstone National Park today at around 10:00 AM local time in the Biscuit Basin thermal area, located approximately 2.1 miles (3.5 km) northwest of Old Faithful. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the explosion seemed to originate near the Black Diamond Pool. While many visitors captured videos of the event, the boardwalk sustained damage prompting the temporary closure of Biscuit Basin for visitor safety. However, the Grand Loop Road remains open. Park geologists are currently investigating this incident to better understand its underlying causes.
Hydrothermal explosions, caused by the sudden flashing of water into steam underground, are relatively common in Yellowstone. Instances such as the explosion at Porkchop Geyser in the Norris Geyser Basin in 1989 and a recent event at the same basin on April 15, 2024, highlight the dynamic nature of this geological hotspot. Similarly, a similar explosion to today’s occurred at Biscuit Basin on May 17, 2009.
For more detailed insights into hydrothermal explosions, a comprehensive resource can be found at the official USGS webpage: https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/yvo/news/hydrothermal-explosions-yellowstone-national-park.
While recent monitoring data reveals no anomalies in the Yellowstone region post-explosion, it’s crucial to note that today’s event does not reflect any volcanic activity within the system. The volcanic system remains at normal activity levels. Hydrothermal explosions like today’s aren’t indicative of imminent volcanic eruptions nor are they linked to the ascent of magma towards the surface.
The Yellowstone Volcano Observatory (YVO) stands as a stalwart guardian overseeing long-term monitoring of volcanic activity and seismicity in Yellowstone National Park. As the home to the most diverse natural thermal features globally and the premier national park, Yellowstone’s significance cannot be understated. YVO, one of the USGS’s five volcano observatories, diligently monitors volcanic activity across the United States for both scientific understanding and public safety.
YVO member agencies include USGS, Yellowstone National Park, University of Utah, University of Wyoming, Montana State University, UNAVCO, Inc., Wyoming State Geological Survey, Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology.
Accompanying Image by Vlada March.
Stay tuned for more updates and vital information as this situation unfolds.
#USGS #YVO #YellowstoneVolcanoObservatory #BiscuitBasin