A shocking mud eruption at Yellowstone National Park’s Black Diamond Pool was caught on a live webcam, offering a rare glimpse into the volatile hydrothermal activity beneath one of America’s most famous geothermal regions.

The footage, released by the U.S. Geological Survey, shows thick mud violently shooting upward from the pool in Biscuit Basin, an area known for its unstable and powerful geothermal features. While the eruption was brief, it underscored the unpredictable nature of Yellowstone’s underground systems.

The event follows a far larger hydrothermal explosion that occurred at the same location in July 2024, which sent debris flying and prompted park officials to close portions of Biscuit Basin for extensive safety evaluations. Since that incident, scientists have closely monitored the area for signs of renewed activity.

Experts note that such eruptions are driven by superheated water and steam trapped beneath the surface, which can suddenly release pressure without warning. While these events are typically localized and not volcanic eruptions, they still pose serious risks to visitors who venture too close.

The newly released footage reinforces why access restrictions remain in place and why Yellowstone officials continue to urge the public to stay on designated paths. The eruption serves as a vivid reminder that Yellowstone is a living, dynamic system where dramatic geological activity can occur at any time.