When Will Yellowstone Erupt Again? | Dr. Mike Poland, Yellowstone Volcano Observatory | Ep. 025

The Backcountry Manifesto

Is the Yellowstone Supervolcano really going to erupt and end life as we know it, and with the recent and unexpected geothermal events in Biscuit Basin, how worried are the scientists that study the Yellowstone caldera? Is it true the animals of Yellowstone are fleeing, signaling an eruption may be on the immediate horizon?

This week on the show, Dr. Mike Poland -- scientist in charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory -- joins us in the field to debunk myths, explain caldera systems, and break down what a real eruption would look like. From geothermal explosions, to ancient ash layers on Mount Everts, massive lava flows, and why earthquakes are the bigger worry, we cover it all. Plus, Mike calls out those sensational clickbait videos and shares why this iconic landscape is endlessly fascinating without the hype. If you're obsessed with volcanoes, geology, or just love Yellowstone's wild side, this episode is for you.

We talk about:

• Yellowstone Fears
• Caldera Systems
• Signs of Eruptions and Warnings
• Ash Layers of Mount Everts
• Eruption Complexity
• Lava Flows: Past Eruptions and Global Effects
• Explosive Eruptions
• Real Hazards: Hydrothermal Explosions and Earthquake
• Timeline for Potential Eruptions
• Ash Flows: Impact & Radius
• What are the odds?
• Sensationalization
• What you should take away from Yellowstone

Links mentioned in this video

• Caldera Chronicles
• USGS Youtube
• USGS Volcanos X
• USGS Volcanos Instagram
• USGS Volcanos Facebook

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Credits

• Intro and Animations by Barry Thompson
• Photograph Contributions for Animation by Carver Weeks
• Additional Graphics by Andrew O’Neill
• Production Assistance by John Stock
• “Welcome to the Backcountry” theme song by Logan Roth, Will Brown, Arjun Dube and produced at Treacle Mine Studios, Phila, PA
• Copyright Outdoor Visions Media LLC, 2025