Scientists have found that a crater in Siberia, known as the Batagaika slump or the “Gateway to Hell,” is expanding more rapidly than expected due to climate change, posing risks to the local habitat.

Located in the Yana Highlands, this crater spans about 200 acres and is visible from space. Detected in 1991, it has grown significantly as global warming melts the permafrost.

A recent study led by glaciologist Alexander Kizyakov revealed that the crater, now 300 feet deep, is nearing bedrock but continues to expand outward at an accelerated pace, increasing by about 1 million cubic meters annually.

This expansion threatens the nearby Batagay River through increased erosion and impacts the surrounding ecosystem, the New York Post reported.

Additionally, the thawing permafrost releases 4,000 to 5,000 tons of organic carbon yearly, a figure expected to rise, potentially escalating greenhouse gas emissions.

Written by B.C. Begley