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Another blast hits Yellowstone. What just happened at Biscuit Basin?
USA Today • • science
Key Points:
- A small hydrothermal explosion occurred on June 13 at Yellowstone's Biscuit Basin, creating new vents and a boiling pool, but causing no injuries due to prior area closures following a larger July 2024 explosion.
- The explosion was detected by seismic and infrasound monitoring equipment, and subsequent investigations revealed cracks up to 61 feet long and water temperatures near boiling, indicating a relatively small but significant event.
- Scientists are closely studying the event using data from nearby monitoring stations installed in 2025, aiming to identify potential warning signs and improve understanding of Yellowstone's hydrothermal hazards.
- Hydrothermal explosions happen when pressurized underground hot water rapidly converts to steam, posing unpredictable dangers despite being less powerful than volcanic eruptions.
- The U.S. Geological Survey emphasizes that Yellowstone's volcanic system is not overdue for an eruption, and current activity reflects ongoing geothermal processes fueled by magma heating groundwater beneath the surface.
