What does it indicate if water is bubbling up out of the ground at a dry hydrant's base when the hydrant is fully open?

When water is bubbling up out of the ground at the base of a dry hydrant that is fully operational, it typically indicates that there's a broken component in the hydrant barrel itself. This means that the structure holding the water is compromised, allowing water to escape rather than flowing through the intended pathways, resulting in bubbling up at ground level.

In this situation, the hydrant's functionality is being disrupted, leading to water leaking instead of being supplied for firefighting purposes. A broken hydrant component can occur due to various factors, including age, corrosion, or damage from external forces. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial for ensuring accessible and reliable water supply during emergencies.