Is there a wrecked ship rising out of Yellowstone Lake or is it an April Fool's joke? Watch to learn more!
Michael Poland
Mike Poland is a research geophysicist with the Cascades Volcano Observatory and the current Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Mike's area of specialization is volcano geodesy, which emphasizes the surface deformation and gravity fields associated with volcanic activity. This work involves the use of space-based technologies, like Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), as well as ground-based techniques, like microgravity surveys. Mike has taken part in studies on a variety of volcanic systems in the United States, including Mount St. Helens and other volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest, Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes in Hawaii, and the Yellowstone caldera. His recent work has focused on using gravity change over time to understand the character of the fluids that drive volcanic unrest, and also on the potential of satellite data to improve forecasts of future changes in volcanic activity.
Professional Experience
U.S. Geological Survey - Yellowstone Volcano Observatory: Scientist-in-Charge (2017 - present)
U.S. Geological Survey – Cascades Volcano Observatory: Research Geophysicist (2015 - present)
U.S. Geological Survey – Hawaiian Volcano Observatory: Research Geophysicist (2005 - 2015)
U.S. Geological Survey – Cascades Volcano Observatory: Research Geophysicist (2002 - 2005)
Department of Geology, Clark College (Vancouver, Washington): Instructor (2004)
Arizona State University, Department of Geological Sciences: Graduate Teaching/Research Assoc. (1997 - 2001)
Education and Certifications
Arizona State University: Ph.D. (2001), Geological Sciences
University of California, Davis: B.S. (1997), Geology
Affiliations and Memberships*
American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Geological Society of America (GSA)
International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior (IAVCEI)
Honors and Awards
Fellow, Geological Society of America, 2021
Science and Products
Optimizing satellite resources for the global assessment and mitigation of volcanic hazards
Data of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) Kīlauea Campaign Gravity Network (KCGN)
Continuous gravity data from K?lauea Volcano, Hawai?i
Repeat microgravity data from Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Is there a wrecked ship rising out of Yellowstone Lake or is it an April Fool's joke? Watch to learn more!
Volcanic ash in Kansas? It's true there's thick deposits there, but where are the source volcanoes? Geologists began puzzling over this in the late 1800s when these deposits were first recognized.
Volcanic ash in Kansas? It's true there's thick deposits there, but where are the source volcanoes? Geologists began puzzling over this in the late 1800s when these deposits were first recognized.
If a geyser erupts and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Of course it does, and now we can hear it no matter when it happens thanks to a new monitoring station in Yellowstone National Park.
If a geyser erupts and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Of course it does, and now we can hear it no matter when it happens thanks to a new monitoring station in Yellowstone National Park.
In this monthly update of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, we present our take on the top five headlines for 2023.
0:12 - Earthquakes, Deformation
1:20 - Steamboat Geyser Eruptions
2:30 - New Monitoring for Hydrothermal
3:24 - Volcanic Eruptions at Yellowstone
4:34 - Magma Chamber below Yellowstone
In this monthly update of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, we present our take on the top five headlines for 2023.
0:12 - Earthquakes, Deformation
1:20 - Steamboat Geyser Eruptions
2:30 - New Monitoring for Hydrothermal
3:24 - Volcanic Eruptions at Yellowstone
4:34 - Magma Chamber below Yellowstone
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2023. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2023. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Steamboat Geyser is the tallest geyser in the world. It has been putting on a show the last few years for visitors at Yellowstone National Park with a record number of water eruptions, 48 eruptions each in 2019 and 2020. But it's only had eight eruptions in 2023. Is Steamboat losing steam?
Steamboat Geyser is the tallest geyser in the world. It has been putting on a show the last few years for visitors at Yellowstone National Park with a record number of water eruptions, 48 eruptions each in 2019 and 2020. But it's only had eight eruptions in 2023. Is Steamboat losing steam?
Infrasound data from Norris Geyser Basin showing November 13, 2023, eruption of Steamboat Geyser
linkInfrasound-array processing for the newly installed station YNB, at Norris Geyser Basin. Top panel shows the pressure waveform from one of the three elements that comprise the array, filtered between 1 and 15 Hz. Bottom panel shows the backazimuth from the station to the source.
Infrasound data from Norris Geyser Basin showing November 13, 2023, eruption of Steamboat Geyser
linkInfrasound-array processing for the newly installed station YNB, at Norris Geyser Basin. Top panel shows the pressure waveform from one of the three elements that comprise the array, filtered between 1 and 15 Hz. Bottom panel shows the backazimuth from the station to the source.
River levels and vertical deformation of Yellowstone caldera during 2016–2022. River level (blue) was measured at the Corwin Springs gaging station on the Yellowstone River, just north of Yellowstone National Park. Vertical deformation (red) is from the WLWY GPS station on the east side of Yellowstone caldera. The GPS data indicate overall subsiden
River levels and vertical deformation of Yellowstone caldera during 2016–2022. River level (blue) was measured at the Corwin Springs gaging station on the Yellowstone River, just north of Yellowstone National Park. Vertical deformation (red) is from the WLWY GPS station on the east side of Yellowstone caldera. The GPS data indicate overall subsiden
What geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales? The answer might not be what you think.
What geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales? The answer might not be what you think.
What geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales?
What geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales?
Streamgage site and profiling tool on the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, Montana. The gage house narrowly avoided damage during the June 2022 flood, which eroded the downstream bank. The river profiling instrument helps to map the river bottom to assess streamflow rates and conditions. USGS photo by Mike Poland, July 31, 2023.
Streamgage site and profiling tool on the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, Montana. The gage house narrowly avoided damage during the June 2022 flood, which eroded the downstream bank. The river profiling instrument helps to map the river bottom to assess streamflow rates and conditions. USGS photo by Mike Poland, July 31, 2023.
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Map of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Map of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
linkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
linkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Lessons learned from the 2022 CONVERSE Monogenetic Volcanism Response Scenario exercise
Microgravity as a tool for eruption forecasting
High-resolution InSAR reveals localized pre-eruptive deformation inside the crater of Agung Volcano, Indonesia
Officially social: Developing a social media crisis communication strategy for USGS Volcanoes during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption
Rapid pre-explosion increase in dome extrusion rate at La Soufrière, St. Vincent quantified from synthetic aperture radar backscatter
Optimizing satellite resources for the global assessment and mitigation of volcanic hazards—Suggestions from the USGS Powell Center Volcano Remote Sensing Working Group
Microgravity change during the 2008-2018 Kı̄lauea summit eruption: Nearly a decade of subsurface mass accumulation
The centenary of IAVCEI 1919–2019 and beyond: The people, places, and things of volcano geodesy
Synthetic aperture radar volcanic flow maps (SAR VFMs): A simple method for rapid identification and mapping of volcanic mass flows
Volcano geodesy using InSAR in 2020: The past and next decades
Rainfall an unlikely trigger of Kilauea’s 2018 rift eruption
A decade of geodetic change at Kīlauea’s summit—Observations, interpretations, and unanswered questions from studies of the 2008–2018 Halemaʻumaʻu eruption
Science and Products
- Science
Optimizing satellite resources for the global assessment and mitigation of volcanic hazards
A vast number of the world’s volcanoes are unmonitored by ground-based sensors, yet constitute an important hazard to nearby residents and infrastructure, as well as air travel and the global economy. Satellite data provide a cost-effective means of tracking activity at such volcanoes. Unfortunately, satellite acquisitions are not optimized for application to volcano hazards, in part because cle - Data
Data of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) Kīlauea Campaign Gravity Network (KCGN)
Data Description Campaign microgravity surveys have been conducted at K?lauea, Hawai‘i (USA), since 1975 (Dzurisin and others, 1980) and, when combined with deformation measurements, enable insights into mass change within the volcano (Jachens and Eaton, 1980; Johnson, 1992; Kauahikaua and Miklius, 2003; Johnson and others, 2010; Bagnardi and others, 2014; Poland and others 2019). For example, micContinuous gravity data from K?lauea Volcano, Hawai?i
This Data Release contains continuous gravity records from two instruments on Kilauea Volcano, Hawaiʻ'i the HOVL gravimeter, located on the east rim of Halema'uma'u Crater directly above the 2008-2018 summit eruptive vent, and the PUOC gravimeter, located on northern rim of Puu Oo crater on Kīlauea's East Rift Zone. Both instruments were collocated with GNSS stations. The HOVL gravimeter was instaRepeat microgravity data from Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
These data are microgravity measurements collected in Yellowstone National Park. Data are collected using multiple instruments, which each data file representing measurements from a specific instrument during a specific time period. The data dictionary explains the file format and contents, and the dataset will be updated as new data are collected. - Multimedia
Filter Total Items: 101Ship Wrecked in Yellowstone Lake? (Yellowstone Volcano Monthly Update - April 2024)Ship Wrecked in Yellowstone Lake? (Yellowstone Volcano Monthly Update - April 2024)Ship Wrecked in Yellowstone Lake? (Yellowstone Volcano Monthly Update - April 2024)
Is there a wrecked ship rising out of Yellowstone Lake or is it an April Fool's joke? Watch to learn more!
Is there a wrecked ship rising out of Yellowstone Lake or is it an April Fool's joke? Watch to learn more!
Kansas covered in ash? Yellowstone's aftermath (Yellowstone Volcano Update - March 2024)Kansas covered in ash? Yellowstone's aftermath (Yellowstone Volcano Update - March 2024)Kansas covered in ash? Yellowstone's aftermath (Yellowstone Volcano Update - March 2024)Volcanic ash in Kansas? It's true there's thick deposits there, but where are the source volcanoes? Geologists began puzzling over this in the late 1800s when these deposits were first recognized.
Volcanic ash in Kansas? It's true there's thick deposits there, but where are the source volcanoes? Geologists began puzzling over this in the late 1800s when these deposits were first recognized.
Whisper or Roar? No More Secrets (Yellowstone Volcano Update - Feb 2024)Whisper or Roar? No More Secrets (Yellowstone Volcano Update - Feb 2024)Whisper or Roar? No More Secrets (Yellowstone Volcano Update - Feb 2024)If a geyser erupts and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Of course it does, and now we can hear it no matter when it happens thanks to a new monitoring station in Yellowstone National Park.
If a geyser erupts and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Of course it does, and now we can hear it no matter when it happens thanks to a new monitoring station in Yellowstone National Park.
Top 5 Updates of 2023 — Yellowstone Volcano Update for January 2024Top 5 Updates of 2023 — Yellowstone Volcano Update for January 2024Top 5 Updates of 2023 — Yellowstone Volcano Update for January 2024In this monthly update of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, we present our take on the top five headlines for 2023.
0:12 - Earthquakes, Deformation
1:20 - Steamboat Geyser Eruptions
2:30 - New Monitoring for Hydrothermal
3:24 - Volcanic Eruptions at Yellowstone
4:34 - Magma Chamber below Yellowstone
In this monthly update of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, we present our take on the top five headlines for 2023.
0:12 - Earthquakes, Deformation
1:20 - Steamboat Geyser Eruptions
2:30 - New Monitoring for Hydrothermal
3:24 - Volcanic Eruptions at Yellowstone
4:34 - Magma Chamber below Yellowstone
Map of earthquakes in the Yellowstone National Park region in 2023Map of earthquakes in the Yellowstone National Park region in 2023Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2023. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Map of seismicity (red circles) in the Yellowstone region during 2023. Gray lines are roads, black dashed line shows the caldera boundary, Yellowstone National Park is outlined by black dot-dashed line, and gray dashed lines denote state boundaries.
Steamboat: Losing steam?Steamboat Geyser is the tallest geyser in the world. It has been putting on a show the last few years for visitors at Yellowstone National Park with a record number of water eruptions, 48 eruptions each in 2019 and 2020. But it's only had eight eruptions in 2023. Is Steamboat losing steam?
Steamboat Geyser is the tallest geyser in the world. It has been putting on a show the last few years for visitors at Yellowstone National Park with a record number of water eruptions, 48 eruptions each in 2019 and 2020. But it's only had eight eruptions in 2023. Is Steamboat losing steam?
Infrasound data from Norris Geyser Basin showing November 13, 2023, eruption of Steamboat GeyserInfrasound data from Norris Geyser Basin showing November 13, 2023, eruption of Steamboat GeyserInfrasound data from Norris Geyser Basin showing November 13, 2023, eruption of Steamboat Geyser
linkInfrasound-array processing for the newly installed station YNB, at Norris Geyser Basin. Top panel shows the pressure waveform from one of the three elements that comprise the array, filtered between 1 and 15 Hz. Bottom panel shows the backazimuth from the station to the source.
Infrasound data from Norris Geyser Basin showing November 13, 2023, eruption of Steamboat Geyser
linkInfrasound-array processing for the newly installed station YNB, at Norris Geyser Basin. Top panel shows the pressure waveform from one of the three elements that comprise the array, filtered between 1 and 15 Hz. Bottom panel shows the backazimuth from the station to the source.
River levels and vertical deformation of Yellowstone caldera during 2016–2022River levels and vertical deformation of Yellowstone caldera during 2016–2022River levels and vertical deformation of Yellowstone caldera during 2016–2022. River level (blue) was measured at the Corwin Springs gaging station on the Yellowstone River, just north of Yellowstone National Park. Vertical deformation (red) is from the WLWY GPS station on the east side of Yellowstone caldera. The GPS data indicate overall subsiden
River levels and vertical deformation of Yellowstone caldera during 2016–2022. River level (blue) was measured at the Corwin Springs gaging station on the Yellowstone River, just north of Yellowstone National Park. Vertical deformation (red) is from the WLWY GPS station on the east side of Yellowstone caldera. The GPS data indicate overall subsiden
Yellowstone Volcano Update — September 2023: KABOOM! Crater to BayYellowstone Volcano Update — September 2023: KABOOM! Crater to BayYellowstone Volcano Update — September 2023: KABOOM! Crater to BayWhat geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales? The answer might not be what you think.
What geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales? The answer might not be what you think.
Yellowstone Volcano Update — August 2023: MONUMENT TO A TRAGEDY. The origin of Hebgen LakeYellowstone Volcano Update — August 2023: MONUMENT TO A TRAGEDY. The origin of Hebgen LakeYellowstone Volcano Update — August 2023: MONUMENT TO A TRAGEDY. The origin of Hebgen LakeWhat geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales?
What geologic hazard is most likely to occur in the Yellowstone region on human timescales?
Streamgage site and profiling tool on the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, MontanaStreamgage site and profiling tool on the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, MontanaStreamgage site and profiling tool on the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, Montana. The gage house narrowly avoided damage during the June 2022 flood, which eroded the downstream bank. The river profiling instrument helps to map the river bottom to assess streamflow rates and conditions. USGS photo by Mike Poland, July 31, 2023.
Streamgage site and profiling tool on the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, Montana. The gage house narrowly avoided damage during the June 2022 flood, which eroded the downstream bank. The river profiling instrument helps to map the river bottom to assess streamflow rates and conditions. USGS photo by Mike Poland, July 31, 2023.
Animated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinAnimated GIF of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022. Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow from thermal features on the east side of Porcelain Bas
Map of Norris Geyser BasinMap of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Map of Norris Geyser Basin showing the locations of major subbasins, roads and trails, and Nuphar Lake.
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain BasinVisible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain BasinVisible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
Visible (top) and thermal (bottom) images of Porcelain Basin looking to the north from the old roadbed. Nuphar Lake is off the photograph to the right. Cool-water seeps into Porcelain Basin are clearly evident in the thermal image and appear to flow underground from Nuphar Lake. USGS photos by Mike Poland, July 1, 2023.
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser BasinHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
High-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin
linkHigh-resolution satellite images of the Porcelain Basin and Nuphar Lake areas of Norris Geyser Basin acquired by Quickbird-2 on September 11, 2006 (left), WorldView-3 on July 7, 2016 (middle), and WorldView-3 on March 30, 2022 (right). Note the change in color of Nuphar lake, from deep green to light blue, over time, as well as the increased evidence of flow f
Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Yellowstone Volcano Update — July 2023 — NEW THERMAL FEATURES at Yellowstone!Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Geysers and hot springs are some of the most dynamic geologic features on the planet. They are always changing and sometimes that change happens in places where we can see and appreciate it. This has been the case on Geyser Hill, near Old Faithful, in Yellowstone National Park.
Earthquake Lake and the Madison slideEarthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Earthquake Lake, which formed when the Madison River was blocked by a landslide that occurred as a consequence of the Hebgen Lake earthquake in 1959. The lake inundated existing forest, now marked by standing dead trees in the lake water. The landslide scar is visible on the side of the mountain at the far end of the lake.
Yellowstone Volcano Update — June 2023Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Old Faithful, one of the icons of Yellowstone National Park and probably the most famous geyser in the world. But how faithful is it really? That's the question we're going to tackle in this June 1, 2023 update from the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
Map of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone regionMap of ground deformation monitoring network in the Yellowstone regionMap of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Map of continuous Global Positioning System (GPS), semipermanent GPS, borehole strainmeters, and borehole tiltmeters that provide surface deformation monitoring capability in and around Yellowstone National Park. Red line denotes boundary of Yellowstone Caldera.
Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023Monthly update of activity at Yellowstone Volcano, May 1, 2023May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
May is traditionally the start of the field season and plans are underway to strengthen monitoring networks, collect data, and conduct research to better understand volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region. Mike Poland, scientist-in-charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, outlines upcoming projects in this YVO monthly video update for May 1, 2023.
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National ParkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National ParkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
linkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
Soil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park
linkSoil carbon dioxide concentration and temperature measured at a new thermal area near Tern Lake in Yellowstone National Park on the east side of Yellowstone Caldera. A, Map of soil carbon dioxide flux simulated based on measurements made at the black dots in September 2022. B, Map of soil temperature at a depth of 20 centimeters (8 inches).
- Publications
Filter Total Items: 146
Lessons learned from the 2022 CONVERSE Monogenetic Volcanism Response Scenario exercise
When volcanic unrest occurs, the scientific community can advance fundamental understanding of volcanic systems, but only with coordination before, during, and after the event across academic and governmental agencies. To develop a coordinated response plan, the Community Network for Volcanic Eruption Response (CONVERSE) orchestrated a scenario exercise centered around a hypothetical volcanic crisAuthorsYolanda C Lin, Einat Lev, Ria Mukerji, Tobias P. Fischer, Charles Connor, Wendy K. Stovall, M. Poland, Alexandra M. Iezzi, Christelle Wauthier, Judit Gonzalez-Santana, Heather M. Wright, Samantha Wolf, Tobi KasaliMicrogravity as a tool for eruption forecasting
Detection of gravity change over time has been used to better understand magmatic activity at volcanoes for decades, but the technique is not commonly applied to forecasting eruptions. In contrast, other tools, notably seismic, deformation, and gas monitoring have made exceptional strides in the past several decades and form the foundation for eruption forecasting, especially during the final builAuthorsElske de Zeeuw-van Dalfsen, Michael P. PolandHigh-resolution InSAR reveals localized pre-eruptive deformation inside the crater of Agung Volcano, Indonesia
During a volcanic crisis, high-rate, localized deformation can indicate magma close to the surface, with important implications for eruption forecasting. However, only a few such examples have been reported, because frequent, dense monitoring is needed. High-resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is capable of achieving <1 m spatial resolution and sub-weekly revisit times, but is under-used. HeAuthorsMark Bemelmans, Juliet Biggs, Michael P. Poland, James Wookey, Susanna Ebmeier, Angela K. Diefenbach, Devy Damil SyahbanaOfficially social: Developing a social media crisis communication strategy for USGS Volcanoes during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption
The USGS Volcano Science Center has a long history of science and crisis communication about volcanoes and their eruptions. Centered mainly on websites, email notifications, traditional media, and in-person interaction in the past, our toolkit has expanded in the last decade to include social media channels. This medium has allowed us to communicate with both long-standing and new audiences in newAuthorsWendy K. Stovall, Jessica L. Ball, Elizabeth G. Westby, M. Poland, Aleeza Wilkins, Katherine M. MullikenRapid pre-explosion increase in dome extrusion rate at La Soufrière, St. Vincent quantified from synthetic aperture radar backscatter
The extrusion rate of a lava dome is a critical parameter for monitoring silicic eruptions and forecasting their development. Satellite radar backscatter can provide unique information about dome growth during a volcanic eruption when other datasets (e.g., optical, thermal, ground-based measurements, etc.) may be limited. Here, we present an approach for estimating volcanic topography from individAuthorsEdna Dualeh, Susanna Ebmeier, Tim J. Wright, M. Poland, Raphael Grandin, Adam Stinton, M. Camejo-Harry, B. Esse, Mike BurtonOptimizing satellite resources for the global assessment and mitigation of volcanic hazards—Suggestions from the USGS Powell Center Volcano Remote Sensing Working Group
A significant number of the world’s approximately 1,400 subaerial volcanoes with Holocene eruptions are unmonitored by ground-based sensors yet constitute a potential hazard to nearby residents and infrastructure, as well as air travel and global commerce. Data from an international constellation of more than 60 current satellite instruments provide a cost-effective means of tracking activity andAuthorsM. E. Pritchard, M. Poland, K. Reath, B. Andrews, M. Bagnardi, J. Biggs, S. Carn, D. Coppola, S.K. Ebmeier, M.A. Furtney, T. Girona, J. Griswold, T. Lopez, P. Lundgren, S. Ogburn, M. Pavolonis, E. Rumpf, G. Vaughan, C. Wauthier, R. Wessels, R. Wright, K.R. Anderson, M.G. Bato, A. RomanMicrogravity change during the 2008-2018 Kı̄lauea summit eruption: Nearly a decade of subsurface mass accumulation
Results from nine microgravity campaigns from Kı̄lauea, Hawaiʻi, spanning most of the volcano's 2008–2018 summit eruption, indicate persistent mass accumulation at shallow levels. A weighted least squares approach is used to recover microgravity results from a network of benchmarks around Kı̄lauea's summit, eliminate instrumental drift, and restore suspected data tares. A total mass of 1.9 × 1011AuthorsMathijs R. Koymans, Elske de Zeeuw-van Dalfsen, Laslo G. Evers, Michael P. PolandThe centenary of IAVCEI 1919–2019 and beyond: The people, places, and things of volcano geodesy
Over the first century of the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth’s Interior (IAVCEI), volcano geodesy grew from roots as an accidental and incidental system of measurements to an important method for monitoring volcanic activity and forecasting eruptions. The first practitioners in volcano geodesy were experts in other disciplines, and it was not until the latter hAuthorsMichael P. Poland, Elske de Zeeuw-van DalfsenSynthetic aperture radar volcanic flow maps (SAR VFMs): A simple method for rapid identification and mapping of volcanic mass flows
Volcanic mass flows, including lava, pyroclastic density currents, and lahars, account for the bulk of fatalities and infrastructure damage caused by volcanic eruptions. Mapping these flows soon after their emplacement is vital to understanding their impact and to forecasting the likely behavior of potential future flows. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) can provide useful information about surfaceAuthorsM. PolandVolcano geodesy using InSAR in 2020: The past and next decades
The study of volcano deformation has grown significantly through they year 2020 since the development of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) in the 1990s. This relatively new data source, which provides evidence of changes in subsurface magma storage and pressure without the need for ground-based equipment, has matured during the past decade. It now provides a means to address previouAuthorsM. Poland, Howard ZebkerRainfall an unlikely trigger of Kilauea’s 2018 rift eruption
If volcanic eruptions could be forecast from the occurrence of some external process, it might be possible to better mitigate risk and protect lives and livelihoods. Farquharson and Amelung1 suggested that the 2018 lower East Rift Zone (ERZ) eruption of Kīlauea Volcano—the most destructive eruption in Hawai‘i in at least 200 years2—was triggered by extreme precipitation, which caused increased porAuthorsM. Poland, Shaul Hurwitz, James P. Kauahikaua, Emily Montgomery-Brown, Kyle R. Anderson, Ingrid Johanson, Matthew R. Patrick, Christina A. NealA decade of geodetic change at Kīlauea’s summit—Observations, interpretations, and unanswered questions from studies of the 2008–2018 Halemaʻumaʻu eruption
On March 19, 2008, a small explosion heralded the onset of an extraordinary eruption at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano. The following 10 years provided unprecedented access to an actively circulating lava lake located within a region monitored by numerous geodetic tools, including Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), tilt, and gravity. These dAuthorsMichael P. Poland, Asta Miklius, Ingrid A. Johanson, Kyle R. Anderson - News
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