Yellowstone National Park sees millions of visitors come through its gates every year to take in the natural beauty of its thermal pools and geysers. They must be admired from a distance, however, as even walking in some places is dangerous. But what happens when scalding water is coming toward you?
Visitors to Yellowstone’s Biscuit Basin on July 23 quickly had to jump into action when they were faced with this situation. A hydrothermal explosion near Sapphire Pool, located near the iconic Old Faithful geyser, was caught on video as water and rocks spewed several dozen feet into the air and sent tourists observing the incident running in the opposite direction.
BREAKING: Biscuit Basin geyser explodes sending Yellowstone tourist running from the boiling water and boulders.No reports yet on injuries or deaths. pic.twitter.com/zs8WZQz0TR https://t.co/Pw66LyWaCL
— Financelot (@FinanceLancelot) July 23, 2024
The explosion prompted the National Park Service to temporarily close Biscuit Basin as well as the nearby parking lot and boardwalks. No injuries were reported and the extent of the damage at the site is currently unknown. NPS will work in tandem with the United States Geological Survey to “monitor conditions and reopen the area once deemed safe,” according to an NPS statement.
It appears to have been an isolated incident and not a symptom of a larger problem underground at the park. “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,” the agency said.
Whenever you go to Yellowstone, make sure you follow all posted signs and stay on the boardwalks at all times, as they’re there for your own good.
Conclusion
Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder that must be respected and treated with caution. While incidents like the hydrothermal explosion near Sapphire Pool can occur, they are typically isolated incidents and do not indicate larger issues within the volcanic system of the park. Visitors are urged to follow all safety guidelines and stay on designated pathways to ensure their own safety and the preservation of the park’s natural beauty.
FAQs
Q: Was anyone injured in the Biscuit Basin geyser explosion?
A: No injuries were reported as a result of the explosion near Sapphire Pool at Yellowstone’s Biscuit Basin.
Q: Will Biscuit Basin be reopened to the public?
A: The National Park Service will work with the United States Geological Survey to monitor conditions and reopen the area once it is deemed safe for visitors.
Q: Is Yellowstone National Park currently experiencing any major volcanic activity?
A: No changes in monitoring data have indicated any abnormal volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. The volcanic system remains at normal background levels of activity.
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