Tourists at Yellowstone National Park flee for safety after explosion rocks area | Global News
A steam, water, and rock explosion startled tourists at Yellowstone National Park in the US, causing them to flee for safety.
Footage captured a column of black and grey vapor rising into the air as people hurriedly warned each other to “back up”.
The hydrothermal explosion occurred on Tuesday at Biscuit Basin, near the well-known Old Faithful Geyser in Wyoming.
While the wooden walkway was covered in silt, authorities confirmed that there were no reported injuries as they closed off the area.
Although Yellowstone is situated on a dormant volcano, the explosive event – which projected debris approximately 100 feet into the sky – is not believed to be linked to any volcanic system changes.
A map showing the location of Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park
What is a hydrothermal explosion?
A hydrothermal explosion involves the sudden ejection of boiling water, steam, and rock fragments.
Water beneath the ground, near boiling point, swiftly turns into steam due to a decrease in pressure, leading to these explosive events.
Yellowstone is known for its geysers that can send jets of boiling water into the air. Pic: iStock
This phenomenon can occur due to blockages in the park’s natural underground network, resulting in a build-up of pressure and the release of steam.
Read more on Sky News:
Video shows Olympian whipping horse in training
Dramatic footage shows whale capsizing boat
How dangerous are Yellowstone’s thermal features?
While there were no injuries in this particular explosion, at least 22 individuals have lost their lives due to injuries related to the park’s thermal features since 1890.
Visitors are cautioned to stay on the designated boardwalks as some areas may have a fragile crust covered with acidic water.
