An explosion rocked Sheboygan County last Friday afternoon after an excavation crew struck a natural gas pipeline, leading to dozens of evacuations and four people being hospitalized. The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. on Trio Lane in the Town of Mitchell, with reports of a loud explosion that could be heard for miles, according to CBS 58.
The Sheboygan County Sheriff's Office and emergency responders arrived on the scene to find a ruptured 10-inch gas main. A Spectrum contractor was reportedly involved, with the pipeline tied to utility TC Energy, FOX 6 Now stated. Around 60 homes within a 700-foot radius were evacuated as a precaution, though the sheriff's office noted there is no further risk to the community as of now.
One member of the excavation crew was among the four injured, said the Sheboygan County Sheriff's Office, as reported in a WISN article. The explosion caused significant damage to two homes and forced a shutdown of the affected gas line, with efforts underway to dissipate remaining gas in the area.
Resident Vu Vang described the moment the explosion took place: "I looked up in front of the house, and I was like 'oh my gosh there's a huge black cloud," as recounted in an interview with CBS 58. Another resident, Wally Froh, detailed the overpowering smell of gas, saying, "I didn't really think of it until I went outside and smelt the gas smell. I mean it was so strong it gave me a headache, and I could taste it in my mouth. I mean, I've never had a gas smell that strong." The fire department worked to assess gas levels and ventilate the homes before allowing residents to return.
Though initial reports from residents and authorities suggested an explosion, TC Energy later claimed the incident did not result in an explosion, but rather "the release of gas may have resulted in a temporary dust cloud." A force majeure was declared, causing minor restrictions in gas flow for some customers, as per TC Energy's statement in the WISN release. Plans for pipeline repairs are in development. Meanwhile, Trio Lane remains closed to traffic as the investigation continues.
For those displaced by the incident, the American Red Cross of Wisconsin has set up a shelter at the Cascade Fire Department. Individuals impacted by the explosion can seek assistance by contacting 1-800-RED-CROSS, as informed by CBS 58.
