The Yellowstone Volcano Observatory just released an updated version of the YVO response plan, a plan set to guide the observatory during a response to earthquakes, hydrothermal explosions, or any other geological activity that could lead to a volcanic eruption.
The YVO response plan was first published in 2010, explaining how scientists would collect data, communicate with each other and the public, and interact with emergency managers during a major crisis. A second version was published in 2014 and expanded to include more institutions as well as lessons learned from a readiness exercise held in 2011.
The newest version of the YVO response plan includes several significant modifications. First of all the plan now aligns with procedures established by the USGS Volcano Science Center, including the Observatory Volcano Event Response Team defining critical functions like data management, communications, monitoring, science, and logistical support that can be staffed up during a crisis.
The updated plan also defines two different cases, “events” and “activity with potential”. Events are single and sudden hazardous occurrences like the July 23, 2024, hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin that prompt YVO to immediately add additional monitoring and communicate hazards infomration to emergency managers and the public.
Activity with potential is a geological hazard that evolves slowly with the potential for eventually building towards a hazard that requires intense monitoring. The 2003 thermal event at Norris Geyser Basin fits into this category. The plan also includes communications protocols and call-down lists to establish robust methods for the passing along of information between emergency managers at various institutions.
More information on the YVO’s new plan is available here.
