Update #2, Video added, scroll down
AN EXPLOSION AT A GULF OIL FACILITY near San Juan, Puerto Rico early this morning has set at least 11 gasoline storage tanks on fire. The initial explosion happened shortly after midnight and the blast led to another, eventually igniting others in the complex of 30 storage tanks.
AP / Leighton photo
The situation is still out of control as hundreds of P.R. Firefighters converge on the scene. The FBI is already beginning an investigation into the cause. The Associated Press is reporting:
A police helicopter that flew over the area confirmed that 11 of more than 30 tanks had exploded, (Police Chief) Figueroa Sancha said. Firefighters were planning to chill [sic] the remaining tanks in an effort to keep them from exploding. Dozens of fuel trucks were also being moved from the area.
“This is about containment,” firefighter Brenda Rodriguez said.
The fuel company told authorities that all of its employees who were at the plant are safe, Rodriguez said.
The FD is anticipating that the fires could burn for several days yet. Firegeezer will be updating as more information comes in.
Update, 8:45 am:
The facility is an oil refinery and tank farm. It is owned and operated by the Carribbean Petroleum Corp. that markets the Gulf brand in Puerto Rico. The refinery can process 48,000 barrels of crude a day.
Also on FireGeezer…
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- Glue Factory Blast and Fire Create Sticky Situation for Haz-Mat Team – March 14, 2011
- Plumber’s Work Van Explodes Killing Driver – December 12, 2011
- Fatal Ka-Boom at Recycling Center – December 15, 2010
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