The Door to Hell Crater Has Been Lit for 40 Years
- 12 years ago
The Door to Hell crater fire has been lit for 40 years.
Residing in Asia's Karakum desert is un unusual, somewhat scary crater. Often referred to as ‘the Door to Hell’, it has been spitting out flames for approximately 40 years.
In 1971, the crater was created due to a Soviet drilling rig mishap, during a gas exploration. Apparently, the soviets mistakenly tapped into a natural gas chamber underground while drilling.
The ground collapsed beneath workers feet, causing the crew to fall in. Fearing that toxic gas would be released into the air, geologists lit the crater on fire, hoping the fuel would be consumed by fire in a couple of days.
However, the gas supply seems to be never ending as that fire is still going to this day. Measuring 20 meters deep by 60 meters wide, the fire can be seen from miles away at night, casting a signature bright orange glow.
The crater serves as a popular spot for travelers. It is advised to not stand to close to the edge, as it is unstable. Visitors can only stand near the crater for several minutes due to the excruciating heat.
Residing in Asia's Karakum desert is un unusual, somewhat scary crater. Often referred to as ‘the Door to Hell’, it has been spitting out flames for approximately 40 years.
In 1971, the crater was created due to a Soviet drilling rig mishap, during a gas exploration. Apparently, the soviets mistakenly tapped into a natural gas chamber underground while drilling.
The ground collapsed beneath workers feet, causing the crew to fall in. Fearing that toxic gas would be released into the air, geologists lit the crater on fire, hoping the fuel would be consumed by fire in a couple of days.
However, the gas supply seems to be never ending as that fire is still going to this day. Measuring 20 meters deep by 60 meters wide, the fire can be seen from miles away at night, casting a signature bright orange glow.
The crater serves as a popular spot for travelers. It is advised to not stand to close to the edge, as it is unstable. Visitors can only stand near the crater for several minutes due to the excruciating heat.