Yellowstone National Park has once again become the centre of global attention, not because of its geysers or wildlife, but due to viral social media claims suggesting an imminent supervolcano eruption. A widely circulated video appears to show a group of bears “fleeing” the park, stirring alarm across platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Users speculated that the animals were reacting to seismic activity beneath the surface. However, scientific evidence and expert monitoring tell a very different story. As of July 2025, the US Geological Survey and Yellowstone Volcano Observatory report no signs of impending volcanic unrest. Here’s a closer look at what’s really happening beneath Yellowstone’s surface — and what isn’t.
The viral bear video and Yellowstone supervolcano panic: where it actually came from
The now-viral bear video, which triggered fears of an impending eruption, has been thoroughly debunked. Contrary to claims, the footage was not filmed in Yellowstone. It originated in January 2025 at Bear Country USA, a wildlife park in Rapid City, South Dakota. Wildlife experts confirm that the bears shown were part of a controlled, fenced environment and were not exhibiting unusual behaviour.Animal migrations in Yellowstone show no signs of panic. Experts note that bears and other animals tend to follow seasonal patterns, and there’s been no verified mass exodus from the park.
Yellowstone supervolcano’s current volcanic status
The Yellowstone supervolcano remains at background levels of activity. According to the USGS and Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, the volcano alert level is NORMAL, and the aviation colour code is GREEN. These designations indicate that seismic and geothermal activity are within expected norms.In June 2025, 60 small earthquakes were recorded in the region. The largest measured magnitude 2.7 — well within Yellowstone’s historical patterns and not linked to heightened volcanic risk. Regular geothermal features such as geysers and hot springs continue to operate without any unusual changes.
Are hydrothermal changes a cause for concern?
Hydrothermal activity in Yellowstone is dynamic and constantly changing. Events like a new hydrothermal vent forming in Biscuit Basin (July 2024) or minor steam explosions are not uncommon. These phenomena result from shallow underground water interactions and do not suggest deeper magma movement.USGS scientists clarify that such changes, while sometimes dramatic, are part of Yellowstone’s geothermal landscape and are not considered precursors to a supervolcano eruption.
What scientists expect before a real eruption
If Yellowstone were approaching a major eruption, multiple early warning signs would occur. Experts expect precursors like:
- A sharp increase in earthquake frequency and magnitude
- Broad and rapid ground uplift
- Elevated emissions of volcanic gases like sulphur dioxide
- Unusual heat patterns across large areas
None of these indicators are currently present. Continuous monitoring through GPS, seismic networks, and gas sensors provides scientists with real-time data capable of detecting any significant changes.
The reality of Yellowstone’s eruption cycle
The last supervolcanic eruption at Yellowstone occurred around 640,000 years ago. While some speculate on eruption intervals, scientists stress that supervolcanoes do not follow predictable schedules. Estimates suggest no such eruption is due for at least another 60,000 years.Recent studies also show the magma chamber beneath Yellowstone is not as full or pressurised as previously believed, further lowering the likelihood of sudden catastrophic activity.
Final word: Yellowstone remains safe
Despite social media rumours, there is no scientific basis for fears of an imminent Yellowstone supervolcano eruption. The viral bear video was misleading and not filmed in the park. Experts remain vigilant through advanced monitoring systems and have found no signs of escalating volcanic hazard.Yellowstone continues to be a safe destination for visitors, with its geothermal marvels and wildlife providing awe and inspiration — minus the eruption panic.
