The explosive story of Excelsior Geyser
Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. This week's contribution is from Michael Poland, geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey and Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. On the morning of July 23, 2024, a hydrothermal explosion from Black Diamond Pool in Biscuit Basin sent people running for cover. The event was caused by liquid water flashing to steam in the clogged hot-water plumbing system just beneath the surface, and it sent steam, water, mud, and rocks several hundred feet into the air. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Eruption of