Hydrothermal Explosion at Yellowstone National Park

news image
Top Stories
24 Jul 2024 3:00 PM

A hydrothermal explosion occurred Tuesday morning, July 23rd in Yellowstone National Park near Sapphire Pool in Biscuit Basin. The Sapphire Pool is located just north of Old Faithful. The boardwalk was damaged, but thankfully, there have been no reports of injuries. Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park is temporarily closed due to the explosion. Photos from the National Park Service show debris and damage to the walkway.

The United States Geological Survey, USGS, states, "Hydrothermal explosions are violent and dramatic events resulting in the rapid ejection of boiling water, steam, mud, and rock fragments." They are relatively common in Yellowstone and more common than volcanic eruptions!

A similar incident occurred on April 15th, 2024 at the Norris Geyser Basin. According to NPS, "No other monitoring data show changes in the Yellowstone region. Today’s explosion does not reflect a change in the volcanic system, which remains at normal background levels of activity." Additional monitoring of activity and reopening potential will continue to be monitored.

All Weather News
More
Northeast Braces for Severe Storms and Possible Widespread Flooding

Northeast Braces for Severe Storms and Possible Widespread Flooding

The Northeast will finally get some relief fr

9 Jul 2025 10:00 AM
Plains Storms This Week

Plains Storms This Week

Energy spinning off the Rockies is forcing th

9 Jul 2025 9:50 AM
Dangerous Heat Building Out West

Dangerous Heat Building Out West

WEST - Heat alerts have been issued across th

9 Jul 2025 9:00 AM
Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Chantal Weakens After Making Landfall Sunday Morning

Tropical Storm Chantal formed Saturday mornin

7 Jul 2025 4:50 PM
Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Eastern Pacific Remains Active

Following the prolific start to the season, t

7 Jul 2025 12:15 AM
Near Seasonal Temperatures for Many Come July 4th!

Near Seasonal Temperatures for Many Come July 4th!

AAA is expecting over 70 million travelers to

4 Jul 2025 10:15 AM
Northeast Severe Threat on Thursday

Northeast Severe Threat on Thursday

NORTHEAST -A shortwave trough will swing thro

3 Jul 2025 8:05 PM