Yellowstone Park Geyser Explosion Altered Shape Of Thermal Pools

An explosion from within one of Yellowstone National Park's hydrothermal pools earlier this week has caused the closure of the site for the rest of the season. The blast's power reportedly re-shaped at least one of the surrounding pools.

A major geyser explosion happened Tuesday morning at Yellowstone's Biscuit Basin that sent "grapefruit-sized rocks" hurling more than 200 feet into the air and did substantial damage to the surrounding walkway, according to information released on the park's official website. A video taken by a visitor that showed the explosion and people rushing to get clear of the fallout went viral in a matter of minutes.

Had the explosion not occurred where it did, this could have had catastrophic consequences.

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The park's July 24 press release also stated the area will now be closed to the public for at least the rest of the summer tourist season. No deaths or serious injuries were reported. The dramatic explosion was also captured by motorists driving through the area. The park's update also mentioned that Black Diamond Pool had been "changed somewhat."

I've personally visited this area of the park and am amazed those around escaped unscathed. Had the explosion not occurred where it did, this could have had catastrophic consequences. Judging from the video, there were dozens of people within just a few hundred feet of the source of the blast.

The park will continue to release updates on its website regarding the incident.