Pemex Closes Krem-1 Well After Five Months of Flaring

Petróleos Mexicanos completed the closure of the Krem-1 exploratory well on August 2, 2026, ending nearly five months of continuous gas flaring. The operation follows an accident in early March that ignited a fire and caused a prolonged release of natural gas near Las Choapas in the state of Veracruz.

One researcher estimated the well burned approximately 300 million cubic meters of gas between March and July. The company stated that the well "no longer has surface flow" and has committed to ongoing environmental cleanup, repair efforts, and financial compensation.

To address the local impact, the company pledged to continue providing medical services to more than 45 surrounding communities. Field teams remain deployed to document the environmental and social consequences of the incident.