A Fresh Fissure Appears in the Vibrant, Ancient, and Highly Active Region of Yellowstone National Park
In the heart of Yellowstone National Park, a new geological wonder has emerged, capturing the attention of scientists and visitors alike. The Norris Geyser Basin, known for its high levels of hydrothermal activity, has recently welcomed a new hydrothermal pool, discovered during a routine temperature survey on April 10, 2025 [1][2].
The discovery was made by geologists from the U.S. Geological Survey's Yellowstone Volcano Observatory while they were conducting a routine temperature log in the Porcelain Basin area of Norris Geyser Basin. Satellite images and monitoring data showed no signs of the pool from October to December 2024. However, by early January 2025, a shallow depression had formed in the location of the new pool [1].
The pool, approximately 4 meters (13 feet) in diameter, contains hot water, around 43°C or 109°F. The water is light blue, a colour likely due to silica dissolved from rhyolite rock underground [1][2]. The rim of the new pool is scattered with rocks covered in a fine dust, indicating it was blown open by a hydrothermal explosion.
The formation of the new pool is believed to be a result of a series of hydrothermal explosions between December 2024 and February 2025. These explosions are often triggered by factors such as seismic activity, seasonal thaw, or the gradual weakening of rock by acidic hydrothermal fluids. However, no seismic activity was recorded in association with the low-level acoustic signals detected [1].
The new pool made its appearance on Christmas Day 2024, followed by more rumbling activity in the weeks that followed. By February 13, 2025, the water-filled pool had fully developed into the feature visible today. The pool, now known as the Chalk Blue Pool, was not visible in satellite imagery as of December 19, 2024 [1].
The Norris Geyser Basin is described as the hottest, oldest, and most dynamic thermal area in Yellowstone. The emergence of the Chalk Blue Pool adds to the park's already impressive collection of geothermal features, making it an exciting time for researchers and tourists alike.
[1] U.S. Geological Survey. (2025). New hydrothermal pool discovered in Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.usgs.gov/news/new-hydrothermal-pool-discovered-yellowstone-national-park
[2] National Park Service. (2025). Yellowstone National Park News: New hydrothermal pool discovered. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/news/new-hydrothermal-pool-discovered.htm
- The Chalk Blue Pool, a new geological discovery, is sparking interest in both science and health-and-wellness communities, as it adds to the impressive geothermal features in Yellowstone National Park.
- Given the ongoing research in environmental science, understanding the formation and potential impacts of the Chalk Blue Pool could provide valuable insights into hydrothermal activity and the park's ecosystem.
- As science continues to unravel the mysteries behind the Chalk Blue Pool, it also encourages discussions on the liminality between the safety of our surroundings and the fragmented relationship between human wellness and the environment.
