Unexpected Hydrothermal Explosion in Yellowstone National Park

On July 23, 2024, an unexpected hydrothermal explosion occurred at Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park. Geologists noted that the explosion happened due to water in the shallow hydrothermal system beneath Black Diamond Pool which has changed into steam and is not a volcanic explosion. This resulted in a powerful blast that caused steam and debris to fly up hundreds of feet into the air, damaging a nearby trail and hurling rocks tens to hundreds of feet away, some as large as three feet wide. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the presence of visitors.

The explosion damaged the landscape, particularly around Black Diamond Pool and Black Opal Pool, which became muddy with debris and the ground around them became unstable, occasionally sliding into the water. The next day, both pools overflowed and sent murky water into the Firehole River.