Origin of mysterious geothermal gas emissions in the middle of the Western Desert, stable shelf area, Dakhla Oasis, Egypt

Abstract

Abstract This work responds to what was reported in various audio-visual media channels and to queries and explanations gained from individuals and local residents on the causes of gaseous and thermal emissions from the earth near the vicinity of the village of Al-Hindaw in Dakhla city, the New Valley Governorate, Egypt. At the location of the fume exit area, magnetic, seismic, and electromagnetic geophysical investigation were carried out in attempt to ascertain the factor(s) responsible for the event in question. Rock samples are collected and studied geochemically and radiographically to assess their chemical compositions as well as the quantity of organic chemicals that may have contributed to the burning and temperature increase. In light of the results of the geochemical and geophysical research, it is believed that the self-ignitions are the result of near-surface reactions and oxidation instead of volcanic activity, such as the presence of magma or other comparable phenomena.