Surprise Hydrothermal Explosion Rocks Yellowstone National Park
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — A sudden hydrothermal explosion shook Yellowstone National Park Tuesday morning, sending steam, water, and debris soaring dozens of feet into the air, prompting immediate evacuation of nearby visitors.
The incident occurred around 10 a.m. in Biscuit Basin, located approximately two miles north of the iconic Old Faithful Geyser. Eyewitnesses captured dramatic footage of the eruption, which caused onlookers to flee for safety as steam and material erupted from the ground. Shouts of surprise filled the air as visitors scrambled to distance themselves from the growing plume.
The explosion caused significant damage to the boardwalk, a crucial structure designed to protect visitors from Yellowstone’s delicate and hazardous geothermal features. Images from the aftermath show destroyed guardrails and debris littering the elevated path, which is vital for safe exploration of the area.
While no injuries were reported, authorities promptly closed the Biscuit Basin area to ensure visitor safety, as confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey. The explosion originated near Black Diamond Pool, the basin’s largest thermal feature at 120 feet long.
Aerial views taken after the event revealed that Black Diamond Pool had expanded and changed color to a muddy beige, contrasting sharply with the nearby Sapphire Pool, which retained its vibrant blue hues.
Hydrothermal explosions occur when underground water rapidly transitions to steam, and such events are not uncommon in Yellowstone. Park geologists are currently investigating the specific details surrounding this particular incident.
Previous explosions have been recorded in Biscuit Basin in 2009, 1991, and after the magnitude 7.2 Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. Despite its impressive display, experts noted that this eruption was relatively small compared to others.
Scientific studies suggest that multiple hydrothermal explosions contributed to the formation of Mary Bay—historically the largest known explosion crater—approximately 13,800 years ago.
Yellowstone National Park sits atop a vast dormant volcano. While this recent event has raised concerns, officials have assured that there are no signs of new volcanic activity, and the system remains stable.
The safety of park visitors is paramount, especially considering that Yellowstone has a tragic history of injuries related to thermal features. Since 1890, at least 22 fatalities have been attributed to such incidents within the park.
Authorities urge visitors to always remain on designated boardwalks and trails when exploring thermal areas, where hazards persist due to fragile crusts hiding dangerous, boiling water below.
