Hydrothermal Explosion Damages Yellowstone’s Biscuit Basin

On Tuesday morning, a hydrothermal explosion rocked Yellowstone National Park’s Biscuit Basin, damaging a boardwalk and sending debris several stories into the air. The explosion occurred around 10 a.m. approximately 2.1 miles northwest of Old Faithful, likely originating from the Black Diamond Pool. Michael Poland, Scientist-in-Charge at the U.S. Geological Survey’s Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, confirmed that no injuries were reported.

The explosion was captured on video by witnesses, showing visitors on the boardwalk near the blast and debris scattered around the area. In response, the National Park Service temporarily closed Biscuit Basin’s parking lot and boardwalks for safety while geologists investigate. Despite the dramatic nature of the event, monitoring data shows no unusual volcanic activity. Poland emphasized that such explosions are not indicative of imminent volcanic eruptions and are not caused by rising magma.

Hydrothermal explosions occur when underground water rapidly turns to steam due to pressure changes. These events are relatively common in Yellowstone, with previous incidents recorded in May 2009 and April 2015. The U.S. Geological Survey notes that large hydrothermal explosions happen on average every 700 years, and Yellowstone has at least 25 identified craters over 328 feet wide formed by such events.

Black Diamond Pool has a history of eruptive activity, notably after a 2006 earthquake, and its average temperature is 148.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The public affairs office for Yellowstone National Park stated that no further information was available immediately, but updates will be provided by the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory as they become available.

For more details, visit the Yellowstone Insider and the U.S. Geological Survey websites.