SEVERAL people have reportedly been injured in an explosion at a Shearer’s Foods in Hermiston, Oregon as huge flames and smoke clouds engulf the building.
Multiple roads and railways are closed as crews tend to the scene.
5
5
The explosion reportedly occurred just before 1pm local time, according to a statement from the Umatilla County Fire District.
Employees of Shearer’s Foods allegedly reported a boiler explosion when they called 911, according to the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, speaking to Northeast Oregon Now.
The fire district has confirmed the cause of the explosion was a portable boiler fueled by natural gas.
Six patients have been treated at Good Shepherd Medical Center, the fire district’s statement said.
Highway 207 is closed from Interstate 84 to Feedville Road as crews continue to battle the blaze.
It’s also reported that traffic has been suspended on the nearby Union Pacific Railroad.
Most read in US News
The smoke is causing air quality issues which could impact nearby homes and businesses.
Those in the area, including homes to the South of Shearer’s Foods and the Comfort Inn, have been evacuated, according to the fire district.
The freeway continues to be monitored. Residents are encouraged to avoid the area.
Multiple police, fire, and medical units are responding to the scene, with Umatilla County Fire District saying this is “the largest fire our District has seen in the last decade.”
“There were roughly 60 firefighters working together on this fire.”
Hermiston is the largest city in eastern Oregon with a population of approximately 20,000.
The city is about 7 miles south of the Columbia River where Oregon borders Washington state.
Shearer’s Foods produces high-quality salty snacks, including varieties of chips and popcorn, as well as cookies and crackers, according to its website.
The company’s headquarters is in Massillon, Ohio. They reportedly came to Hermiston in 2010.
The situation is ongoing.
5
5
5
We pay for your stories!
Do you have a story for The US Sun team?
