The world's largest permafrost crater is now expanding due to the consequences of climate change.

In the wilds of Russia's Far East lies an Earthly scar - the Batagaika Crater. Locals dub it the “Gateway to the Underworld”, and the massive fracture, over 1 kilometre long and 100 metres deep, is a stunning reminder of the planet's delicate balance.

Formed decades ago after deforestation triggered permafrost thawing, the crater has been slowly growing ever since. 

Some experts believe it's expanding at an alarming rate of up to 30 metres each year, a consequence of warmer summers and shorter winters brought on by climate change.

Recent drone footage reveals the eerie beauty of the Batagaika crater as two explorers venture deep into its heart. 

Scientists are raising the alarm. Russia's rapid warming - 2.5 times faster than the global average - threatens to release vast amounts of greenhouse gases stored in thawed permafrost. This dangerous feedback loop could fuel further climate change, exacerbating wildfires and putting communities at risk.

Researcher Nikita Tananayev warns that more mega-slumps like Batagaika could emerge unless significant action is taken to combat climate change. 

Thawing permafrost has already caused damage to infrastructure, splitting houses and buckling roads in northern Russia.

While remote regions have been lucky so far, the appearance of sinkholes and megaslumps near inhabited areas in other parts of the world underscores the urgency of the situation.