Yellowstone National Park, United States - July 23, 2024

A video capturing the aftermath of a hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin on July 23, 2024, has emerged, showcasing the raw power of nature within one of America's most treasured natural parks. The video, which has circulated among visitors and on social media platforms, reveals a landscape altered by the event, with debris scattered across what was once a pristine thermal area, alongside damaged walking paths and fences.

The explosion, which occurred near the Sapphire Pool, sent a column of boiling water, steam, and rock into the air, a phenomenon that while not rare in Yellowstone, is seldom witnessed by the public due to its unpredictability. This particular event was significant enough to close Biscuit Basin for the remainder of the 2024 season, highlighting the potential dangers of these natural occurrences.

Hydrothermal explosions are a result of water beneath the surface suddenly turning to steam, which can happen when the pressure in a hydrothermal system changes. This sudden transition can lead to an explosion, ejecting material from the ground with considerable force. In the case of the Biscuit Basin explosion, the area around Black Diamond Pool was the epicenter, with the blast damaging the surrounding boardwalks and scattering rocks and mud over a wide area.