A devastating explosion at a mine in northern Spain has resulted in the deaths of five individuals, sparking an urgent investigation into safety protocols.
Explosion Claims Five Lives at Asturian Mine
Explosion Claims Five Lives at Asturian Mine
Tragic incident at Cerredo mine raises safety concerns as emergency services respond
At approximately 09:30 local time (07:30 GMT) on Monday, an explosion rocked the Cerredo mine situated in Degaña, Asturias, about 450 kilometers (278 miles) northwest of Madrid. Emergency responders rushed to the location after receiving reports of a "problem with a machine" at the mining site. Tragically, five fatalities have been confirmed, all of whom were residents of Spain's northwestern province of León, ranging in age from 32 to 54.
In addition to the deceased, at least four others sustained injuries and were promptly transported to local hospitals for medical care. Initially, there were concerns for two additional individuals who were reported missing; however, authorities confirmed their safety by early afternoon.
The mining rescue brigade, including a specialized canine unit, was deployed to assist in the recovery efforts. Local media sources, quoting an official spokesperson from Asturias, indicated that the workers were present at the mine under a permit aimed at extracting minerals for graphite production. Notably, ABC España reported that the mine, which had been a major operation before its closure in 2018, had since been intermittently utilized by private companies to source the mineral anthracite.
As investigations into the explosion continue, President of Asturias, Adrián Barbón, announced a period of two days of mourning across the region. The local civil protection plan was activated at its lowest level, indicating a localized situation manageable with available resources. Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims through a message on X, wishing for a swift recovery to the injured.
In addition to the deceased, at least four others sustained injuries and were promptly transported to local hospitals for medical care. Initially, there were concerns for two additional individuals who were reported missing; however, authorities confirmed their safety by early afternoon.
The mining rescue brigade, including a specialized canine unit, was deployed to assist in the recovery efforts. Local media sources, quoting an official spokesperson from Asturias, indicated that the workers were present at the mine under a permit aimed at extracting minerals for graphite production. Notably, ABC España reported that the mine, which had been a major operation before its closure in 2018, had since been intermittently utilized by private companies to source the mineral anthracite.
As investigations into the explosion continue, President of Asturias, Adrián Barbón, announced a period of two days of mourning across the region. The local civil protection plan was activated at its lowest level, indicating a localized situation manageable with available resources. Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims through a message on X, wishing for a swift recovery to the injured.
