Approximately 20 people were wounded Thursday afternoon in an explosion at an oil refinery in northern Wisconsin.
The explosion took place at Husky Energy oil refinery in Superior, Wis., which employs 180 people. One witness said the incident shook the air like a “sonic boom” and those within a few blocks of the refinery felt the ground shake when it happened, according to one report.
Six people were taken to a local hospital, but no deaths have been reported.
“Emergency crews are on site and all workers have been accounted for. Husky’s first priority is the safety of its people, the community and emergency responders. There are injuries, which are being treated at hospital and on site,” Husky said in a statement.
“Regulatory authorities have been notified. Local air quality is being monitored. There is no danger to the public or local residents at this time.”
A Superior Police Department officer told reporters on scene that an asphalt leak may have caused the massive explosion.
The initial fire was put out around noon CT, but reignited half an hour later, the Superior Police Department tweeted.
Police have not asked local residents or schools to evacuate or close down, but have urged people to stay inside.
