YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyoming – Yellowstone National Park is a uniquely active location for geological activity. The hot water system beneath the surface of the park creates some incredible pools, geysers, and explosions, like the massive hydrothermal explosion we saw on July 23 in Biscuit Basin. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) Yellowstone Volcano Observatory releases a monthly update on the park and, surprise surprise, this month’s was filled with talk of the massive explosion. Scientist-in-charge Mike Poland talks Biscuit Basin updates and the 65th anniversary of the M7.3 Hebgen Lake earthquake.
The parking lot and boardwalks at Biscuit Basin will remain closed for the rest of the summer following the explosion, but the Grand Loop Road, and plenty of other hydrothermal features throughout the park, remain open to visitors.
“Black Diamond Pool and Black Opal Pool were affected by Tuesday’s explosion, and while they remain distinct features, the shape of Black Diamond has changed somewhat. Both pools are murky due to debris, and the unstable ground around their edges occasionally slides into the water. Just after the eruption, Black Diamond Pool exhibited minor roiling and water spouting. The water level in the pool rose over the course of the day, and by Tuesday afternoon the roiling transitioned to occasional bursts of hot water that reached about 8 feet (2.4 meters) in height.“