Fire at the Broken Bow power plant, (Courtesy Photo)
BROKEN BOW — More information has been released regarding the explosion and fire that occurred at the Broken Bow Municipal Power Plant and subsequent power outage that occurred during the morning of Thursday, Feb. 20.
According to the Broken Bow PIO, Broken Bow Mayor, and Broken Bow City Administrator it was stated that the explosion happened at approximately 6:17 a.m. at the Municipal Power Plant located in the 800 block of South B Street, causing a subsequent fire.
At the time of the explosion, two city employees were inside the power plant. Both sustained minor injuries and were transported to Melham Medical Center by Broken Bow Ambulance Service out of an abundance of caution.
The Broken Bow Electric Department has successfully rerouted power to restore service to most areas following the city-wide outage. However, some locations remain affected as crews work to fully restore power.
The following areas are currently without service:
– North 8th & C Street
– Norht 9th & J Street
– North 10th & H Street
– North 11th & H Street
– North 12th & H Street
– North 12th & D Street
– North B- 14th Street
– Highway 2 to South B St to 15th St
Additionally, the explosion impacted the City’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, which automated key water service controls. Crews are currently working to manually maintain and control water services until the system can be restored.
For those without power or heat, the North Park Elementary school at 1135 North H Street and Third City Christian Church at 831 Buffalo Run Road have been designated as emergency shelters.
City crews have begun welfare checks on residents without power and are informing them of those shelters. Assistance will be provided to those needing transportation to a shelter.
The cause of the accident is under investigation.
Residents are encouraged to stay clear of the area while emergency crews continue their work. An emergency declaration has been signed by the Mayor.
