Professor David Ong together with the USGS geologists reached Upper Pierce reservoir. The park was almost empty apart from a few joggers. As they approached the reservoir, they noticed bubbles rising to the surface. They also noticed a dead tree that was close to the water.
"That is definitely a sign of carbon dioxide poisoning," Geologist Robby said.
Meanwhile, Geologist Steve approached the water and gathered a few drops of water for sampling. He also placed down earthquake and ground sensors: whether the ground was rising or not. After he had finished, the three of them went to Lower Pierce reservoir. The scene there was different than at Upper Pierce. There were more people walking and fishing, oblivious to the threat that lay beneath their feet.
The 3 of them ignored the people and went to do their work. They placed earthquake and ground sensors at various locations around the park. They made sure they had activated the devices before heading back to the EOS. It was at that moment when the ground shook.
The shaking lasted for about 20 seconds and measured a 4.4 magnitude. Immediately after that, the water in the reservoir started to bubble vigorously. Suddenly, a gush of water shot up 100 feet into the air. Everyone that saw the spectacle were amazed. However, it was boiling water that was shooting up and it splashed onto the people who were fishing nearby. Screams were heard as people groaned in agony while they were being scalded by the water. It was chaos everywhere as people ran away from the reservoir as fast as they could. Another fountain of water erupted. Then another. And another. Soon there were 7 fountains of boiling water shooting 100 feet into the air.
"This is not good. We need to hurry and set up the equipment," Robby said. The 3 of them packed their stuff into their bags and hurried off to other reservoirs.