When Steamboat Geyser erupted 32 times during 2018, it was a record number in recorded history. But the park’s – and ostensibly the world’s – tallest geyser has already spouted off 30 times in the first seven months of 2019, averaging between six and eight days between this year’s eruptions; and it promises to eclipse its recent record before this month is over.
Located in the Norris Geyser Basin, Steamboat Geyser’s major eruptions shoot water more than 300 feet. The water phase of a major eruption lasts 3 to more than 40 minutes. Once the water supply is exhausted, the geyser continues with a powerful steam phase lasting several hours to several days. Its roar is so great that conversation near the geyser is difficult, and visitors in the Norris Campground, a mile to the north, have been awakened by the noise. Scientists are at a loss regarding why the geyser has become so active over the past year and a half, but they say it is nothing to be concerned about.
NPS photo
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