Huge explosion in Middletown, Conn.; Reports of many casualties

February 7, 2010

An explosion at the NRG Power Plant, the Kleen Energy Plant in Middleton, Connecticut, has caused an unconfirmed number of casualties. The power plant is currently under construction. Portions of the building blew away in the explosion.

The explosion was felt for miles. The explosion shook houses at least 10 miles away. All three district fire stations in Middletown responded to the scene, and Urban Search and Rescue were dispatched. The number of casualties has not been confirmed but initial reports indicate that the explosion was responsible for many casualties. Officials report that 50 workers were in the section of the power plant where the explosion happened.

The NRG Power Plant is a fossil-fueled electric generating plant in the state. The plant uses natural gas oil and ultra low-sulfur distillate fuel. The 620-megawat plant was being built to product energy primarily using natural gas.

Police are advising residents to stay in their homes.