Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Centralia Coal Fire
Jul 15, 2020
Discover the eerie tale of Centralia, Pennsylvania, where an underground coal fire has been raging since the 1960s. Learn about the town’s haunting history and the dangers lurking in its abandoned streets. Explore the global phenomenon of coal seam fires and how mining practices contribute to these silent infernos. Delve into the unique challenges faced in extinguishing such fires, alongside innovative solutions. The story of Centralia offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the perils of coal and the environmental legacy it leaves behind.
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Centralia's Decline
- Centralia, Pennsylvania, a small former mining town, is now almost abandoned.
- Less than ten people remain due to a dangerous underground coal seam fire.
Coal Seam Fires
- The Centralia coal seam fire has been burning since the 1960s.
- Such fires are common and can burn indefinitely, fueled by underground coal seams.
Global Coal Seam Fires
- A coal seam fire in Jharia, India, has burned since 1918, consuming 41 million tons of coal.
- A large portion of China's coal mining belt is also frequently on fire.