Harrowing Blast at Clairton Coke Works: A Community on Edge

An explosion at US Steel's Clairton Coke Works near Pittsburgh has injured dozens and trapped people under debris, with emergency crews on site. The plant is a major coking operation in the US with a history of pollution-related concerns, including a costly 2017 lawsuit settlement.

An explosion rocked the US Steel plant in Clairton, near Pittsburgh, on Monday, leaving dozens injured and some individuals trapped beneath debris. Emergency responders are tirelessly working at the scene to rescue those affected, according to local officials.

Abigail Gardner, communications director for Allegheny County, confirmed there have been no fatalities reported at the Clairton Coke Works. Emergency Services revealed that the fire, which erupted around 10:51 am, led to the transport of five individuals, yet details on their condition remain undisclosed as the site is still active.

The Clairton facility, a major North American coking plant situated along the Monongahela River, stands as one of Pennsylvania's key US Steel operations, employing thousands. Notably, it has dealt with pollution issues, settling a $8.5 million lawsuit in 2019 aimed at reducing emissions after a different damaging fire.

(With inputs from agencies.)