Porcelain Tributary, Norris Geyser Basin, YNP.

This site collects most of the water discharged from Porcelain Terrace and Porcelain Basin. The temperature is measured close to the junction with Tantalus Creek. The site is off-limits to the public and is surrounded by unstable thermal ground.

These temperatures reflect both meteorological conditions (solar radiation and air temperature) and the amount of flow from nearby thermal features. Rapid temperature increases can reflect geyser eruptions or other changes in water discharge. Rapid temperature drops may be caused by precipitation. Comparison of the different channel temperatures (as well as the air-temperature control station) can reveal specific parts of the basin affected by increased hydrothermal discharge.