'Hydrothermal explosion' propels debris 100 feet into the air at national park

Officials at Yellowstone National Park have made the decision to temporarily close the popular ' Biscuit Basin ' area after a hydrothermal explosion on the morning of July 23.

The explosion took place in the area of Sapphire Pool and Black Diamond Pool, which is located just north of the iconic Old Faithful geyser.

As of last report, the extent of the damage was unknown, though it is known that the boardwalk in the area was impacted. No injuries were reported related to the explosion and the area will be reopened once officials deem it to be safe.

According to officials, the explosion does not reflect a change in the volcanic system in the Yellowstone area, which remains at normal background levels of activity.

Explosions of this nature occur when " water suddenly flashes to steam underground " and aren't unheard of in the Yellowstone area. An explosion similar to this one took place in Biscuit Basin in May of 2009. An instance of this nature happens one or two times a year in the Yellowstone area, though explosions are typically unnoticed as they often occur in remote backcountry areas.

Multiple videos were captured of the explosion, showing a black cloud of steam, rocks, and water bursting what appears to be more than 100 feet into the air as people flee the scene.

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