This morning, simply after 10 AM local time, there was a “localized hydrothermal explosion” in Biscuit Basin at Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone officials have confirmed the surge and say there were no recognized injuries.
But there could have been. Vlada March was approaching the location on the boardwalk when, suddenly, it took off. She got it on video.
In the video, you can see the surge and hear March shouting “run!” to her household. She also throws some expletives in there.
“@Biscuit basin at Yellowstone national forest Montana just exploded right in front of us,” March composed in the video’s caption. “Boardwalk damaged, my mama got a few of the debris however everybody is safe. Unbelievable and grateful to be alive”
Watch the frightening minute here (caution: curse language):
The surge took place near Sapphire Swimming pool in Biscuit Basin, which is just north of Old Faithful. The park has temporarily closed Biscuit Basin, including the boardwalks and parking lot.
Yellowstone’s post to X was strangely casual:
(Directs!) Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park momentarily closed due to hydrothermal explosion. More info: https://t.co/tcDR8oRNSx pic.twitter.com/YP7CkwNrQR!.?.!— Yellowstone National forest(@YellowstoneNPS)July 23, 2024 There’s no word yet on when the area will resume.”Park personnel
and staff from USGS will keep an eye on conditions and resume the area as soon as deemed safe,”Yellowstone’s press release states. “No other monitoring data reveal modifications in the Yellowstone area. Today’s explosion does not show a modification in the volcanic system, which remains at regular background levels of activity.” To clarify, this is not a volcanic explosion. It was a hydrothermal surge brought on by superheated water turning to steam underground. There was a” localized hydrothermal explosion “today at Yellowstone National Park. View the scary moment here.