A search and rescue operation was underway Monday after one person was killed and two were unaccounted for following an explosion at a steel plant in Pennsylvania.
The explosion sent a cloud of toxic smoke spiraling from the Clairton Coke Works in Pittsburgh after locals heard a loud boom.
Dozens were injured when an explosion was reported at the plant at around 10.50am EST, according to officials.
The explosion sent a shock through the community and led to officials asking residents to stay away from the scene so emergency workers could respond.
The plant converts coal to coke, a key component in the steel-making process. According to the company, it produces 4.3 million tons of coke annually and has approximately 1,400 workers.
Air quality concerns after Pittsburgh explosion
The Allegheny County Health Department said it is monitoring the steel factory explosion and advised residents within 1 mile of the plant to remain indoors, close all windows and doors, set air conditioning systems to recirculate, and avoid drawing in outside air, such as using exhaust fans.
It said its monitors have not detected levels of soot or sulfur dioxide above federal standards.
Gov Shapiro says ‘multiple explosions’ took place at Coke Works
Shapiro added that injured employees were transported to local hospitals to receive care, and search-and-rescue efforts remain active at the plant.
Sen. Fetterman issues update on search
Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman issues a statement after he rushed to the scene at the Clairton Coke Works plant on Monday.
PICTURED: Firefighters battle flames at PA plant
Incident remains ‘active,’ according to police
WATCH: Huge cloud of black smoke after plant explosion
The explosion sent black smoke spiralling into the midday sky in the Monongahela Valley, a region of the state synonymous with steel for more than a century. An Allegheny County emergency services spokesperson, Kasey Reigner, said one person died in the explosion and two were currently believed to be unaccounted for. Multiple other people were treated for injuries, Reigner said.
One dead and dozens injured after Pennsylvania steel plant EXPLODES with multiple people still missing
Emergency crews rushed to the US Steel Clairton Coke Works plant Monday morning after locals heard a loud boom in the Pittsburgh-area facility.
At least nine people were taken to hospitals and were being treated for unspecified injuries.
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Clairton factory explosion live: Plumes of toxic smoke billow from US steel mill with one dead and several unaccounted for
