Potential for Hydrothermal Explosions in Washington: Assessing the Risk

Hydrothermal ExplosionsPhoto byBernd 📷 DittrichonUnsplash

Could Washington’s hydrothermal vents explode like those in Yellowstone?

Yesterday, July 23, 2024, There was a hydrothermal explosion in Yellowstone National Park. The explosion damaged boardwalk and sent debris into the air several stories. The explosion was considered small according to Scientist-in-Charge, Michael Poland. No injuries have been reported in regards to the explosion.

There are many Videos posted online by observers of the explosion. These videos show several people on the boardwalk near the site of the explosion. There are also videos of the aftermath by observers showing the debris area. Currently the boardwalks are closed in and around the scene.

According to Michael Poland, the explosion does not reflect any new activity within the volcanic region. Everything remains at normal activity levels. Michael Poland also stated, “Hydrothermal explosions like that of today are not a sign of impending volcanic eruptions, and they are not caused by magma rising towards the surface.”

These explosions happen when water changes rapidly to steam underground and such occurrences are “relatively common” in Yellowstone National Park.

Washington State has five volcanoes. Many wonder after hearing about the Yellowstone Hydrothermal explosion if Washington State has the potential for such an explosion. Hydrothermal explosions are relative rare even in regions like Mount St. Helen’s and the other volcanoes in the state of Washington.

There are many contributing factors to a hydrothermal explosion. Active or dormant volcanoes are always more prone to hydrothermal explosions due to the magma presence which heats up the groundwater.

Regions that have significant geothermal activity have a far higher likelihood of hydrothermal explosions than those that do not have any geothermal activity. Washington State is home to several geothermal hotspots, especially in and around the volcanoes.

Mount St. Helen’s has had hydrothermal explosions in the past. These past events can give scientists clues to potential future events. Real-time data from systems that the USGS installed can give clues to increased hydrothermal activities by recording changes in the ground temperatures, gas emissions, and seismic activity.

Hydrothermal activity is continuously monitored in the state of Washington by the USGS. There are many factors that are evaluated when considering the risks associated with hydrothermal explosions. While the likelihood of a hydrothermal explosion in Washington State is relatively low, there is still the remote possibility that one could occur.

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