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A sudden hydrothermal eruption in Yellowstone National Park startled visitors on Tuesday, launching steam, water, and dark-colored debris high into the sky. The incident occurred around 10 a.m. in Biscuit Basin, a renowned hot springs area located a few miles north of the iconic Old Faithful Geyser.
Dramatic Eruption Caught on Video
Tourists captured the unexpected event on video, showing a crowd watching from a boardwalk as the eruption intensified. Shouts of “Back up!” and “Holy cow!” echoed as people scrambled to escape falling debris. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the Biscuit Basin area was temporarily closed for safety.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Explosion
Vlada March, a California real estate agent, was on a tour with her family when she noticed unusual steam activity. “We saw more steam coming up, and within seconds it became this huge thing,” she recalled. The eruption created a black cloud that obscured the sun, prompting her tour guide to yell, “Run!”
March’s mother, who had been sitting near the explosion, was shaken but unharmed. The boardwalk they had been walking on was damaged by falling rocks. “Walking back on the broken boardwalk was a little scary, but thankfully it didn’t break under us,” March said.
Scientific Explanation for the Eruption
According to Mike Poland, a scientist with the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, the explosion likely resulted from a blocked passageway in Yellowstone’s extensive geothermal system. Similar to a pressure cooker, the blockage caused a buildup of heat and pressure until it suddenly released, sending material approximately 100 feet into the air.
Poland noted that while the explosion was significant, it was relatively small compared to Yellowstone’s historical events. The largest known hydrothermal explosion crater in the world, located in Yellowstone’s Mary Bay, spans 1.5 miles and formed around 13,800 years ago.
Aftermath and Safety Measures
Photos and videos post-eruption showed damaged guardrails and boardwalks covered in debris near muddy pools. The explosion occurred near Black Diamond Pool, a 120-foot-long hot pool, which was slightly enlarged by the blast. The neighboring Sapphire Pool remained its usual blue.
The National Park Service is investigating the exact cause of the eruption. Similar events have occurred in Biscuit Basin in 2009, 1991, and after the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake.
Yellowstone’s Dormant Volcano
Yellowstone is situated atop a vast, dormant volcanic system. The recent hydrothermal explosion does not indicate new volcanic activity, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Visitors are reminded to stay on designated boardwalks and trails to avoid the park’s dangerous thermal areas.
Since 1890, at least 22 people have died from injuries related to Yellowstone’s thermal features. Many pools and springs have thin, breakable crusts covering scalding, sometimes acidic water, posing significant risks.
FAQs
What caused the hydrothermal explosion in Yellowstone?
The explosion was likely caused by a blockage in Yellowstone’s geothermal system, resulting in a sudden release of pressure and steam.
Were there any injuries from the eruption?
No injuries were reported, although the eruption damaged a boardwalk in Biscuit Basin.
How high did the debris go during the eruption?
Debris was estimated to have been thrown about 100 feet into the air.
Has Yellowstone experienced similar eruptions before?
Yes, Biscuit Basin has had similar eruptions in 2009, 1991, and following the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake.
Is the volcanic activity in Yellowstone increasing?
No, the recent explosion does not indicate new volcanic activity. Yellowstone’s volcanic system remains at normal levels.
What safety measures should visitors take in Yellowstone’s thermal areas?
Visitors should always stay on designated boardwalks and trails to avoid thin, breakable crusts over scalding water.
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