After 10 days of fighting, ISIS has taken control of the Baiji oil refinery. The Baiji refinery is Iraq's largest, producing a third of Iraq's oil output. On June 18, USGS Landsat-8 captured smoke billowing from the refinery. Using new Landsat-8 infrared bands we are able to see through the smoke and pinpoint the exact location of fires. Enhanced imagery shows that main fire in this image was contained to oil storage containers.
We are waiting for new imagery to assess the extent of any subsequent damage. At present there is no evidence to suggest that processing facilities have been significantly damaged.
Swipe for near-infrared processed image showing fires. Zoom to see images from before fighting.
