UPDATED: Ongoing Natural Gas Leak at Fleming Field in South St. Paul
Updated 4:25 PM - May 17th.
SOUTH ST PAUL, MINNESOTA: Emergency responders from the South St. Paul Police Department, South Metro Fire, and Inver Grove Heights Fire Department are actively addressing a significant natural gas leak on the east side of Fleming Field Airport. The leak originated from a main gas line being hit during a construction project. Xcel Energy has responded to the scene to help mitigate the incident as well.
Incident Overview
At approximately 10:39 AM on Friday, May 17, 2024, construction activity near Fleming Field ruptured a main natural gas line. This incident occurred on the east side of the airport, just west of the 66th Street E and 67th Street E loop. By 11:52 AM, fire officials confirmed that a gas main had been struck, leading to the natural gas leak into the surrounding area.
Response and Public Safety Measures
Emergency responders, including members of the South Metro and Inver Grove Heights fire departments, are monitoring gas levels on-site to ensure public safety. Currently, there is no immediate threat to residents. However, the odor of natural gas is noticeable due to prevailing southerly winds dispersing the gas northward from the site of the leak.
Residents are advised to take precautionary measures by keeping their windows closed to minimize the gas smell indoors. This recommendation comes despite the beautiful weather, emphasizing the importance of reducing exposure to the odor while containment efforts are underway.
Containment Efforts
Xcel Energy crews are working diligently to contain and repair the ruptured gas main. Fire officials continue to monitor the situation closely, measuring gas concentrations in the vicinity to ensure the safety of the public and the efficacy of the ongoing containment operations. Authorities will provide immediate updates should the risk level change, ensuring the community is informed of potential dangers or necessary actions. For now, the main concern for residents is the pervasive smell of natural gas.
Update - 4:25 PM
According to emergency officials, around 2:30 PM Xcel was able to get the gas leak stopped. They reported that Xcel crews are now in the process of getting the rupture gas line main repaired.
Location of the natural gas main leak.
Written by: Will Wight