A new thermal steam vent has been discovered at Yellowstone National Park, generating interest among scientists and tourists alike. Located about a mile north of the Norris Geyser Basin, the vent is visible from a road and can be viewed by visitors once the roads open to car traffic in April.
The discovery was made last summer when scientists measured 171-degree steam venting from the base of a wooded hill. The thin coat of gray mud confirmed that the feature was new. According to Mike Poland, scientist in charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, such features are common and constantly changing in Yellowstone.
The new steam plume appears to be related to hot water that surfaced as a new feature 700 feet away in 2003. However, its visibility remains uncertain, with geologists predicting it could be stifled by water in the vent or remain visible from afar this summer.
Yellowstone’s unique geological features are of interest due to the volcano that lies beneath the park. The volcano has not erupted since 70,000 years ago and has had no major eruption for 631,000 years. However, geologists emphasize that there is currently no sign of an impending eruption.
The discovery highlights the dynamic nature of Yellowstone’s thermal features, which come and go but can change over time. Old Faithful Geyser, the park’s most famous feature, remains active and a testament to the park’s unique geological history.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Weird/wireStory/new-thermal-steam-vent-grabbing-attention-changing-yellowstone-120109563