Pemex gas‑well fire near Las Choapas raises health and environmental concerns

Nearly five months after a fire ignited at the Krem‑1 exploratory natural‑gas well near Las Choapas in Veracruz, Mexico, the blaze continues to burn large volumes of gas. Residents report worries about health effects and damage to livestock, while surveys note a decline in local wildlife such as birds and butterflies.

Pemex, the state‑run oil company that operates the well, says it has been working to contain the fire and permanently seal the well. The company reports that monitored pollutant levels remain below regulatory limits and that no poisoning cases have been identified, though dozens of animals have died. Satellite data estimate that about 300 million cubic metres of gas were flared between March and July, roughly half of Mexico’s household natural‑gas consumption for a year. President Claudia Sheinbaum has repeatedly asked Pemex and health authorities for updates and to address residents’ concerns.