Methane plume detected in United States
On 20 Mar 2023, the PRISMA - ASI satellite saw methane escaping at about 670 kg/h from a coal mine.
Evidence packet
If it continued at this rate for 24 hours it would release about 16.1 tonnes of methane.
- Detected
- 20 Mar 2023 · 16:27 UTC
- Satellite
- PRISMA - ASI
- Sector
- Coal
- Coordinates
- 37.17431, -81.87931
Open in Google Maps (satellite) - UNEP plume ID
48cd8c56-ac36-416a-96e3-8ed07b327393
Likely operator
We don't have enough evidence to name an operator for this site yet. If you know who runs it, tell us below.
Emitting site
USA_S_281 · Venting shaft
1 plumes detected at this site
Status
UNEP has not recorded a notification for this plume.
Nobody has reported contacting the operator through Methane Leaks yet.
Push for action
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Write to the operator →Authorities you can notify
- U.S. EPA — report an environmental violation — Federal tip line; covers landfills, oil & gas and coal mines.
- Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
Is this attribution wrong?
If you operate this site, or know who does, tell us. Operators get a right of reply, and corrections are reviewed within a week.
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Cite as: UNEP IMEO MARS plume 48cd8c56-ac36-416a-96e3-8ed07b327393, via Methane Leaks (https://www.methaneleaks.com/plume/48cd8c56-ac36-416a-96e3-8ed07b327393), accessed 6 Oct 2026.