Unexpected Hydrothermal Eruption Shakes Yellowstone Park

A sudden hydrothermal explosion in Yellowstone National Park's Biscuit Basin sent steam, water, and debris high into the air, causing panic among tourists. No injuries were reported, though the area sustained some damage. Scientists are investigating the cause, with initial assessments pointing to a clogged passageway.

A sudden hydrothermal explosion in Yellowstone National Park's Biscuit Basin sent steam, water, and dark-coloured rock and dirt high into the sky on Tuesday morning, sending sightseers fleeing for safety.

The eruption, which occurred around 10 am, startled dozens of visitors as it sprayed debris from a boardwalk viewing area. In online videos, tourists can be seen running and shouting as the eruption grew and eventually subsided under a massive cloud of steam. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The eruption damaged the boardwalk intended to keep visitors away from the park's delicate geothermal features. Vlada March, a tourist who recorded the event, described the scene as the explosion darkened the sky. Experts suspect a clogged passageway caused the hydrothermal blast, but further investigation is ongoing.

(With inputs from agencies.)