The development of technology has lead to the exploration of man’s environment in a bid to increasing his standard of living. This exploration includes oil drilling which in turn leads to gas flaring. In the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, especially within Ebedei and Umutu communities in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, the effects of gas flaring are obvious. Some of them include increase in temperature (thermal gradient), acid rain, low agricultural productivity and in short changes in the ecosystem. Some of the environmental impacts resulting from the gas flared at Umutu-Ebedei gas plant are hereby reported. Surface temperature variations with distances away from the flare point were investigated along the four (4) cardinal directions with the aid of Global Positioning System (GPS). The longitudes and latitudes at each location were also noted. Using python and surfer 8 programs, graphs of temperature against distance and the contour of temperature on the latitudes and longitudes of the study area where generated. From the analysis, it was observed that the temperature tends to normalize at about 31.50C. This result shows a surface temperature elevation of about 4.70C above mean normal daily temperature within a distance of 800m radius away from the flare point. Hence the thermal equilibrium within Umutu – Ebedei environs has been altered. This increase in temperature has negative effect on man and his environment, especially on the socio-economic activities of the inhabitants. Some of the general effects of the gas flared at Umutu-Ebedei gas plant includes the stunted growth and red leaves observed in the cassava, plantain, palm trees, yam and other crops that were planted within the flare area. Also Observed in Umutu-Ebedei is the migration of the inhabitants who are mainly farmers to other towns such as Obiaruku and Agbor for settlement. It could be conveniently recommended that the gas obtained should either be used by a gas turbine for electric power generation or liquefied and bottled for domestic and industrial purposes. Furthermore, the Environmental law Enforcement Agencies, especially DPR (Department of Petroleum Resources), should be more involved in enforcing all existing environmental laws on gas flaring so as to take care of the community’s basic amenities and advice for a strong technological bases that harness Nigeria’s gas potentials. Also, Chemical analysis of the rooting sheets and water analysis should be carried out within and away from the area to determine the extent of corrosion and ascertain the portability of the water. Finally, residential buildings should be situated at least 1km away from the flare point. This information obtained will be useful to both the government and individuals. Keywords: Temperature, distance, gas flare, environment, Umutu-Ebedei, thermometer, elevation, tape.
