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Turkmen Darvaza Crater Heat Drops 75% as Extinguish Push Grows

5/5/2026

40 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Infrared analysis shows the Darvaza crater’s heat output has dropped by more than three-quarters over the past three years.
Turkmen officials say they want the flames extinguished for environmental and health reasons.
The government credits nearby gas wells drilled in 2024 for the reduced fire.
Capterio’s data suggests the dimming began earlier, making the cause unclear.

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Story summary

Infrared analysis shows the Darvaza crater’s heat output has dropped by more than three-quarters over the past three years.
Turkmen officials say they want the flames extinguished for environmental and health reasons.
The government credits nearby gas wells drilled in 2024 for the reduced fire.
Capterio’s data suggests the dimming began earlier, making the cause unclear.