Wisconsin oil refinery explosion: DOZENS hurt after ‘SONIC BOOM’

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An explosion at a Wisconsin oil refinery has left at least 20 people injured.The blast occured at the Husky oil refinery in the east end of the city of Superior, near the state border.

Witnesses reported a “sonic boom” at around 10am local time, with buildings shaking one mile from the scene.

Buildings at the refinery, which employs 180 people, were evacuated as workers attempted to get upwind from huge plumes of smoke.

Officials said at least 20 people were hurt, with five taken to hospital. No fatalities have been reported.

REUTERS

Wisconsin explosion: At least 20 people have been hurt

One nearby worker told Duluth News Tribune: “It shook the houses all over. They felt it at Belknap Plaza.“Tons of people were trying to get down there. They should be staying out.

“They had people evacuating, a lot of the contractors. They are trying to get upwind of the smoke.

“I’ve seen at least eight ambulances go in there and six fire trucks.”

Wisconsin explosionKTTC

An explosion in Wisconsin has left 20 people injured

Police have urged people to avoid the area.The Superior Fire Department said “at least” 20 people have been injured.

Superior Fire Chief Steve Panger said: “There is a report of multiple casualties. Initial reports are at least 20 casualties transported. Multiple agencies have responded.”

Officials said they did not believe any casualties had been reported.

They later said five people had been hospitalised. Others suffered from minor injuries.

Superior blastKTTC

Superior explosion: At least five people have been hospitalised following an oil refinery blast

A spokesman for the City of Duluth, which lies across the Saint Louis Bay and River from Superior, said: “The City of Duluth is saddened to hear of the explosion at the Husky refinery in Superior, Wisconsin.“The City of Duluth, and the Duluth Fire Department, have offered assistance and remain on standby should the Superior Fire Department need it.“The two cities, and Mayors Paine and Larson, have been and remain in communication.

“This situation is ongoing and developing. The Superior Fire Department has operational control of the situation, and all questions should be directed to them.”