Analysis of the July 23, 2024, hydrothermal explosion in Biscuit Basin, Yellowstone National Park
Image credit: USGS/YVO
A hydrothermal explosion occurred in Biscuit Basin, Yellowstone National Park at approximately 16:00 UTC on July 23, 2024.
The event, caused by the rapid transition of water to steam in the shallow hydrothermal system beneath the Black Diamond Pool, resulted in significant debris ejection but was not linked to volcanic activity, Yellowstone Volcano Observatory (YVO) reported in an update published July 24.
Seismicity, ground deformation, and gas and thermal emissions remained at normal levels, with no detectable precursors.
The explosion sent steam and debris hundreds of feet into the air, destroying a nearby boardwalk and projecting rocks, some as large as 0.9 m (3 feet), considerable distances. The debris was primarily directed northeast towards the Firehole River.
The explosion’s dark color stemmed from mud and debris mixed with steam and boiling water. No injuries were reported despite the presence of visitors.
Black Diamond Pool and Black Opal Pool were affected, with Black Diamond Pool’s shape altered and both pools murky from debris. The ground around their edges remains unstable.
Post-explosion, Black Diamond Pool exhibited minor roiling and occasional water spouts, with the water level rising throughout the day. By the morning of July 24, both pools were overflowing into the Firehole River, with no further water bursts observed from the Black Diamond Pool.
“Hydrothermal explosions typically occur in the park one to a few times per year, but often in the backcountry where they may not be immediately detected,” YVO volcanologists said.
Similar, although smaller, hydrothermal explosions took place in 1989 at Porkchop Geyser in Norris Geyser Basin, and on April 15, 2024, from the Porcelain Terrace Area of Norris Geyser Basin. A small hydrothermal explosion occurred from Wall Pool, in Biscuit Basin, in 2009. S
Significant hydrothermal explosions, probably similar in size to that of July 23, 2024, occurred in the 1880s at Excelsior Geyser, in Midway Geyser Basin.
Ongoing hazards include the possibility of small explosions of boiling water from the area over the coming days to months. USGS and NPS geologists are monitoring conditions, mapping the debris field, and sampling water to assess changes in the hydrothermal system.
Biscuit Basin has been closed for the remainder of the 2024 season for visitor safety. Nearby attractions like Grand Loop Road and Black Sand Basin remain open.
References:
1 YELLOWSTONE VOLCANO OBSERVATORY INFORMATION STATEMENT – USGS/YVO – Issued at 21:43 UTC on July 24, 2024
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