On July 23rd, a hydrothermal explosion occurred in Yellowstone National Park, launching rocks and debris into the air early Tuesday morning. This unexpected event prompted tourists to seek safety and led park authorities to close the surrounding recreation area, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Visitors at the park were able to capture footage of the explosion. The images reveal a towering column of mud and debris that forced tourists, who were near a dock, to flee the scene quickly.
The explosion took place in the vicinity of Sapphire Pool, a thermal spring located in Biscuit Basin, which is a little over three kilometers from the iconic Old Faithful geyser in Wyoming. As a precaution, Yellowstone National Park officials temporarily closed the parking lot and boardwalks around Biscuit Basin to ensure the safety of visitors.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries related to the incident so far. The USGS notes that hydrothermal explosions are dramatic events characterized by the rapid ejection of boiling water, steam, mud, and rock fragments. It added that similar occurrences have been recorded in the park in the past.
In a statement, the USGS reassured the public that this explosion does not indicate an imminent volcanic eruption. "Monitoring data show no changes in the Yellowstone region. Today’s explosion does not reflect activity within the volcanic system, which remains at normal levels," the agency explained.
USGS geologists are currently investigating the explosion. However, the park has not yet provided an update on when the area will reopen to tourists.
For more updates on geological events in Yellowstone, you can check the USGS website here.
Image of Old Faithful Geyser, Yellowstone National Park
Image and News Source: https://es-us.noticias.yahoo.com/deportes/explosi%C3%B3n-lodo-rocas-parque-yellowstone-231252182.html
