At around 10:00 A.M. local time today, a geyser exploded near the Biscuit Basin at Yellowstone Park. The explosion sent rocks and other debris flying around the area. Biscuit Basin is about two miles northwest of Old Faithful. There were numerous people nearby, and thankfully no one was injured. The pedestrian boardwalk has been destroyed. Officials with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said the area will be closed until further notice for visitor safety.
USGS officials described the explosion as being hydrothermal which is water that will suddenly steam underground and cause a flash and then can explode to the ground level. They did say that this actually is a common event. However, it normally doesn’t damage a boardwalk. The same area did have a similar event on May 17th, 2009. They made it clear that this event does not indicate volcanic activity.
Geologists are investigating the event. The area will reopen when it is determined to be safe.
