• Dr. Sims and students uncover Yellowstone, Henry Fork eruption insights

In a recent interview on the Weekday Wake-Up, Chad Baldwin showcased cutting-edge research on Yellowstone’s volcanic activity, focusing on its rhyolitic eruptions. Published in April 2025, this study explores the intricate interactions between Yellowstone’s famous caldera and the lesser-known Henrys Fork Caldera, located just west of the national park.

Baldwin highlighted the historical significance of Yellowstone’s eruptions, stating, “There have been some big eruptions hundreds of thousands, even millions of years ago. Of course, everyone worries about when the next big one is going to happen.” Fortunately, experts emphasize that there is no immediate cause for concern.

Led by Dr. Kenneth Sims, a noted geologist at the University of Wyoming and a member of the USGS Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, the research team discovered that mafic volcanism—characterized by lava flows low in silica and high in iron—occurred alongside rhyolitic eruptions in the region. This new timeline reveals that the most recent eruptions include a basalt flow from just 35,000 years ago, challenging previous beliefs that the youngest eruptions occurred over 75,000 years ago.

In a press release from UW, Dr. Sims remarked, “Essentially, it changes our understanding of the Yellowstone magmatic system.” He elaborated that the findings show how basaltic eruptions have “thermally primed” Yellowstone’s major caldera-forming eruptions. This study underscores a critical relationship between increased basaltic activity and heightened rhyolitic activity, suggesting ongoing geological processes beneath the surface.

The research also sheds light on the Henrys Fork Caldera, revealing a younger volcanic history than previously acknowledged. Located near Island Park, Idaho, this caldera has been largely overlooked in discussions of Yellowstone’s geology.

As Sims and his team continue their investigations, they enhance our understanding of volcanic systems. Baldwin noted, “Yellowstone is a real hotbed for geological research,” emphasizing the importance of continuous study in the area.

While concerns about Yellowstone’s next major eruption persist, experts agree that there is no imminent threat. This research serves as a valuable reminder of our planet’s dynamic nature and the ongoing quest to understand its complexities.