Yellowstone is not just setting new records for tourism; it was also swarmed by earthquakes last week. 91 Recorded earthquakes were recorded, over 24 hours, on September 16th. These were not caused by the swarms of tourists pounding through the park.
No other signs of an imminent eruption were identified. The good news is that a scientific survey and experiment was ongoing at the time. This event was the best seismographic swarm recorded in the park. More recorders were dispersed around the park than usual.
Recent surveys and research have proven that the magma chamber under the park is currently solid. Uplifting is a result of pressure pushing against the solid chamber. Research is ongoing to be aware of and predict any potential eruptions in Yellowstone.
Earthquake Swarms are not uncommon in the park. During June-September 2017, over 2,400 earthquakes were recorded. The strongest one was 4.4 on the Richter scale. Usually, we begin to feel and experience damage at 5.4. Normal earthquakes average 1,500-2,000 quakes per year.
As our climate changes above the surface, it also changes below.
Montana Grant
