A hydrothermal explosion occurred in Yellowstone National Park on July 23, 2024. The incident took place near Sapphire Pool in the Biscuit Basin area, about two miles north of Old Faithful. No injuries were reported after the explosion, but the area was temporarily closed for safety reasons.
According to reports from various sources, including CNN and AP News, hydrothermal explosions are violent events that result in the rapid ejection of boiling water, steam, mud, and rock fragments. They occur where shallow interconnected reservoirs of fluids with temperatures at or near the boiling point underlie thermal fields. These fluids can rapidly transition to steam if the pressure suddenly drops.
Biscuit Basin has experienced hydrothermal explosions in the past. For instance, an explosion similar to that of July 23, 2024, occurred on May 17, 2009. Large hydrothermal explosions occur on average every 700 years in Yellowstone National Park.
The exact cause of the July 23 explosion is still under investigation. However, it is important to note that such events are not a sign of an impending volcanic eruption and do not reflect activity within the volcanic system, which remains at normal background levels of activity.
Visitors to Yellowstone National Park were advised to stay clear of the affected area and follow all park rules for their safety. The USGS continues to monitor conditions in the park and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
