Well of Barhout ("Well of Hell") in Al-Mahra, Yemen

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SUMMARY

The Well of Barhout, located in Al-Mahra, Yemen, is a unique geological feature characterized as a cavern-like sinkhole with a depth ranging from 100 to 200 meters (330 to 660 feet) and a length of 30 meters (98 feet). This site is notable for the presence of noxious gases and low oxygen levels, raising concerns about its origins, which remain uncertain. The Smithsonian Volcanic Program indicates that the region contains an ancient volcanic field, suggesting that the well may be linked to prehistoric volcanic activity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of geological formations, specifically sinkholes and caverns.
  • Familiarity with volcanic activity and its effects on landscape formation.
  • Knowledge of gas emissions and their implications for environmental safety.
  • Basic geographic knowledge of Yemen and its geological features.
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  • Research the geological characteristics of sinkholes and their formation processes.
  • Explore the history and activity of the Hadhramaut volcanic field.
  • Investigate the environmental impact of noxious gases in geological formations.
  • Study the implications of low oxygen levels in confined spaces like the Well of Barhout.
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Geologists, environmental scientists, and anyone interested in unique geological formations and volcanic activity will benefit from this discussion.

Astronuc
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Another interesting and unique feature on the Earth's surface is the Well of Barhout. It is described as a sink hole, but looks more like a cavern, in the middle of the desert. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Well_of_Barhout
Location: Al-Mahra, near Hadhramaut, Yemen
Coordinates: 17°20′25″N, 52°26′38″E
Depth: 100–200 m (330–660 ft)
Length: 30 m (98 ft)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hadhramaut

Apparently, there are noxious gases emanating from the cavern and little oxygen in the depths. Origins are unknown/uncertainty.

The Smithsonian Volcanic Program reports an old volcanic field in Hadhramaut region. https://volcano.si.edu/volcano.cfm?vn=231180
The last eruption is unknown, so perhaps it was prehistoric.

https://phys.org/news/2021-06-danger-demons-yemen-mysterious-hell.html
https://news.yahoo.com/well-hell-gaping-desert-hole-122159139.html
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20210621-danger-and-demons-yemen-s-mysterious-well-of-hell

Maybe an extinct volcano?

 

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Astronuc said:
It is described as a sink hole, but looks more like a cavern, in the middle of the desert.
Sink holes are often caused by collapsed caverns.
 
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