A significant fire broke out on Monday 17 August at the Explorer Pipeline Glenpool oil and gas storage facility in Oklahoma, US, causing authorities to evacuate nearby residents and schools to issue a shelter-in-place order.
While the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, lighting due to severe weather was reported in the area around the same time. As of Monday afternoon, officials stated that at least three tanks containing natural gasoline were involved.
Reporting to Oklahoma’s News 4, Explorer Pipeline states: ‘Earlier this morning, lightning struck a tank at the Explorer Pipeline Glenpool tank farm resulting in a fire. The local fire department and emergency response teams have responded and secured the site. Additional fire response resources are en route. Glenpool police have closed 126th Street South between Casper Avenue and Elwood. We ask the public to please stay clear of the area as we continue to monitor the site alongside local emergency officials.’
