This video shows a group of people examining the soil reportedly in Barangay Maasim, Saranggani Province. They are amazed by the phenomenon where the soil is combusting in flames and emitting smoke. It was not reported if the soil was spontaneously combusting or if anyone initiated the fire with external means.
The big question is: why is the soil flammable?
Netizens quickly pointed out a number of reasons, which could have caused this phenomenon. Some theorized that there could be a leak at a nearby gasoline or chemical factory, while others say that it might be due to extreme El Nino (drought) causing the soil to emit fire. While others link the possibility of volcanic activity from a nearby area.
Although some theories seem possible:
- Gasoline theory – Gasoline has a high evaporation rate and would not normally stay seeped in the soil or any other host.
- El nino theory- El nino causes dryness in the soil but dryness does not explain the flammability of it
- Volcano theory- There are 2 active volcanoes near Saranggani province: Mount Matutum & Mount Parker but volcanic activity does not explain flammability of soil.
A better theory would be high presence of carbon in dry soil which is also known as peat.
Peat is an accumulation of partially decayed vegetation or organic matter that is unique to natural areas. It means that the soil has a natural fertilizer in it such as decaying matter. Peat has a high carbon content and can burn under low moisture conditions. Once ignited by the presence of a heat source.
Here is another video which shows potting soil (mixture of soil with peat) burning. Like what the author of the video says: Do not try this at home.
What are your own theories for this phenomenon?
