Overview
- After surface surges in early February, Echinus erupted on Feb. 7, 9, 12 and 15, then shifted to eruptions every 2–5 hours starting Feb. 16.
- Recent monitoring shows spikes that typically precede activity but no confirmed eruptions in recent days, and officials say a summer continuation is unlikely though not predictable.
- Yellowstone Volcano Observatory temperature sensors flag eruptions at about 158°F versus lower surges around 104–122°F, allowing the public to track changes online.
- The world's largest acidic geyser has a 66‑foot‑wide pool and recent bursts lasted 2–3 minutes, reached roughly 20–30 feet, and caused the pool to drop and refill over about an hour.
- USGS and park officials emphasize the geyser’s behavior is part of Norris Geyser Basin’s normal dynamics and not a sign of volcanic unrest, with overall activity at background levels and acidity comparable to orange juice or vinegar.