Yellowstone Hydrothermal Eruption Causes Sightseers to Flee

On Tuesday morning, something unexpected happened at Yellowstone National Park. A sudden explosion of hot water, steam, and dirt shot into the sky, surprising many tourists.

This happened around 10 AM in an area called Biscuit Basin, not far from the famous Old Faithful geyser. People watching nearby saw steam rising, then a huge black cloud appeared. Rocks and hot water started falling, and everyone ran to safety. Luckily, no one was hurt.

The explosion damaged some of the wooden walkways in the area. These walkways are important because they keep people safe from the hot and dangerous ground in Yellowstone.

A scientist named Mike Poland explained that this happened because of a blockage underground. He said it was like a pressure cooker building up steam and then releasing it all at once.

Park officials closed the area to keep people safe. They want to check the damage and make sure it’s okay before letting visitors back in.

This event reminds us that Yellowstone, while beautiful, can be dangerous. The park has many hot springs and geysers that can be harmful if people get too close. That’s why it’s crucial to follow the park’s rules and stay on the marked paths.

Even though this eruption was scary, scientists say it doesn’t mean the big volcano under Yellowstone is waking up. Everything is still normal underground.

This surprise eruption shows how amazing and unpredictable nature can be, especially in a place like Yellowstone.

Re-reported from the article originally published in THE GUARDIAN.