The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) posted a pull of 100 Bcf natural gas from storage for the week ended Feb. 10, coming in close to expectations but below historical averages.

The pull kept inventories comfortably above five-year average levels at a time when winter heating demand has proven relatively weak and production strong. Output has held around 100 Bcf this year, within striking distance of record levels.

Markets, however, were braced for the result.

[Market Moves: What is affecting the natural gas market today? From the LNG pause to climate goals, get the latest on what is top of mind for the energy industry. Tune in to NGI’s podcast now.]

Ahead of the 10:30 ET EIA data release, the March Nymex futures contract was up 3.0 cents at $2.501/MMBtu. The...