Geologists discovered a new thermal pool in Yellowstone National Park, likely created by a hydrothermal explosion. This crater, measuring 13 feet across with 109 degrees Fahrenheit water, features pale blue water and sandy mud-covered rocks. Development began on Christmas Day 2024 and involved multiple small explosions. Satellite images tracked its growth from December to February. Hydrothermal explosions are common in Yellowstone, but they can also be dangerous, as evidenced by a previous explosion in July 2024 at Biscuit Basin, closing a popular trail head.
The latest new thermal feature in Norris Geyser Basin-perhaps the most dynamic area in Yellowstone National Park-demonstrates the spectrum of ways in which hydrothermal features evolve. Some form during brief and violent episodes of change. Others may take shape far more gradually... that seems to have begun taking shape on Christmas 2024.
High-resolution satellite images show the development of the new thermal pool starting in December 2024 before growing into a small depression by early January and then finally revealing itself as fully-formed by Feb. 13.
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