Interactive Map Visualizes US Hot Springs and Geothermal Heat Flow

Mapping Geothermal Activity

An interactive map has been released that overlays the locations of US hot springs with data on geothermal heat flow. This visualization uses warm colors to indicate areas where heat from deep within the Earth reaches the surface most rapidly, showing a clear correlation with the density of hot springs.

Regional Differences in Heat Flow

The map highlights significant regional differences in geothermal activity. The Western United States exhibits substantially higher heat flow, averaging above 65 milliwatts per square meter (mW/m²), compared to the national average. This is attributed to the region's thinner and fractured crust, which allows hot rock to be closer to the surface. Conversely, the Eastern US, characterized by cooler blue areas, has fewer springs, which typically result from water circulating unusually deep before resurfacing.

Top Geothermal Locations

Data from the Stanford Thermal Earth Model identifies specific locations with the highest heat flow and water temperatures. Steamboat Springs, Nevada, records the highest heat flow at 257 mW/m² with water temperatures of 205°F. California also features prominently, with multiple springs like Fumarole and Sulphur Bank showing high heat flow values and water temperatures up to 214°F at The Geysers.

Data Accessibility

Users can interact with the map by tapping on individual spring pins to view specific water temperatures and heat flow values. While most springs include heat flow data, those in Alaska and Hawaii are plotted without this specific measurement.