Recent Activity:
In February 2025, the Yellowstone Caldera exhibited typical background activity. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported 42 localized earthquakes during this period, the largest being a magnitude 2.6 event. Additionally, deformation measurements indicated minor caldera subsidence since early October 2024. Notably, Steamboat Geyser experienced its first major eruption of the year just before midnight on February 3.
Eruption History:
Yellowstone’s volcanic activity spans approximately 17 million years, with the most recent activity occurring in the Yellowstone region. The area has experienced three significant explosive eruptions over the past 2.1 million years, with recurrence intervals ranging from 600,000 to 800,000 years. These massive eruptions were followed by more frequent basalt and rhyolite lava flows. Since the last major caldera-forming event approximately 631,000 years ago, scientists have identified at least 27 different rhyolite lava flows originating from vents within the caldera.
Current Status and Monitoring:
Despite recent observations of magma movement beneath Yellowstone National Park, experts emphasize that there are no immediate signs of an impending eruption. The USGS continues to monitor the region closely, maintaining the volcano alert level at “Normal” and the aviation color code at “Green,” indicating typical background activity.
