A hydrothermal explosion at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming caused chaos as tourists ran for safety. The explosion, which occurred at Biscuit Basin, sent a column of boiling water, mud, and rock shooting into the air, destroying a section of the boardwalk. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the area was closed to the public for safety.
Tourists captured videos of the dramatic event, with some footage showing an adult urging children to run to safety. One tourist, Vlada March, described the experience as a sudden dark cloud full of rocks that covered the sun. She frantically called out to her sons to run and searched for her elderly mother, who emerged covered in ash after the explosion.
The explosion took place a few miles north of the famous Old Faithful Geyser, known for regularly shooting steam into the sky. Michael Poland, the scientist in charge at the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, highlighted that this event was different from the predictable Old Faithful eruptions. The hydrothermal explosion occurred near Black Diamond Pool in Biscuit Basin, surprising both tourists and park officials.
Yellowstone National Park is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The hydrothermal activity beneath the surface creates these spectacular displays but can also lead to sudden events like the recent explosion. Visitors to the park are reminded to stay on designated paths and follow safety guidelines to avoid potential hazards.
The incident serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature, especially in geologically active areas like Yellowstone. While such events are rare, they highlight the importance of respecting the natural environment and being prepared for unexpected occurrences. Park officials are working to assess the damage caused by the explosion and ensure the safety of visitors before reopening the affected area.