Geologists Monitor New Thermal Steam Vent in Yellowstone as Activity Declines
The vent, discovered in 2024 near the Roadside Springs thermal area, remains active but is emitting little to no steam as of March 2025.
- The new thermal vent, located near the Norris Geyser Basin, was first identified in August 2024 and confirmed to be a new feature by geologists.
- The vent's activity, which was prominent last summer, has diminished significantly over the winter, and its visibility this summer is uncertain.
- Scientists believe the vent may be linked to hydrothermal activity that began nearby in 2003, highlighting Yellowstone's dynamic geological processes.
- The Yellowstone Volcano Observatory continues to monitor the vent and emphasizes that such features are normal and not indicative of any imminent volcanic activity.
- Thermal features like this vent can alter the surrounding environment, potentially impacting vegetation and soil conditions over time.