Now, scientists worry that there are more of these craters than anyone knew. A total of seven craters have since been discovered in the area, one of which is surrounded by 20 mini-craters. Dozens more are still likely out there. One Moscow scientist has indicated that if temperatures continue to rise, more craters are bound to emerge. No one has been injured as of yet, but given that the methane bursts are likely huge and increasing in frequency, researchers are nervous about studying them and getting so close.
Not to mention, methane is extremely flammable. One of the bursts has already caught fire. Siberian crater B2 is of particular interest. It has turned into a lake, but wisps of methane can be seen leaking from the water. This means that the craters are still degassing, seeping methane into their surroundings. If this is the initial effect of global warming, what's next?