WEB DESK: A series of explosions occurred at the Clairton Coke Works, a major US Steel facility near Pittsburgh, resulting in two deaths and injuring ten individuals, according to statements from the company and local officials on Monday.
The incidents happened shortly before 11 a.m. ET (1500 GMT) at the large industrial site located along the Monongahela River. Firefighters responded promptly to control flames and dense smoke emanating from the plant, which is operated by US Steel, a subsidiary of Nippon Steel.
Initially, two workers were reported missing. One was later located and transported to a nearby hospital, while the other was found deceased after an extensive search and rescue operation, confirmed Allegheny County Police Assistant Superintendent Victor Joseph during an afternoon briefing.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the explosions. An investigation into the incident is expected to be complex and lengthy, according to Joseph. US Steel’s CEO, David Burritt, stated that the company is collaborating with authorities to uncover the origins of the blasts.Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the situation via X (formerly Twitter), indicating that multiple explosions had taken place and that his administration was coordinating with local agencies. He advised residents nearby to heed official guidance and stay safe.
The injuries sustained by those affected are not fully known, but reports suggest several individuals were transferred to hospital burn units. Clairton Mayor Rich Lattanzi described the day as devastating for the city, which is located approximately 20 miles south of Pittsburgh and has a long history linked to steel manufacturing.
The US steel industry in the region has faced significant decline over recent decades, with numerous plant closures and restructuring efforts. Notably, Nippon Steel’s $14.9 billion acquisition of US Steel was halted in June after an 18-month review process due to concerns over national security. Air quality monitoring following the blasts did not detect dangerous levels of sulfur dioxide; however, residents within a mile of the plant were advised to remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and set HVAC systems to recirculate air, as a precaution.
The Clairton Coke Works is the largest coke production facility in the United States, employing around 1,300 workers. It operates ten coke oven batteries, producing roughly 4.3 million tons of coke annually. Coke, created by heating coal at high temperatures, is essential in steel manufacturing, used mainly in blast furnaces during the steelmaking process.
