20 Mar 2024 | 10:38 PM UTC
US: Authorities responding to explosion at Glycerin Traders oil refinery in Defiance, Ohio, as of March 20
Authorities responding to blast at Glycerin Traders oil refinery in Defiance, Ohio, US, March 20; police instruct individuals to avoid area.
Authorities are responding to an explosion at the Glycerin Traders oil refinery in Defiance, Ohio, as of March 20. Officials have reportedly closed Columbus Avenue and advised individuals to avoid the vicinity of Columbus Avenue, Ottawa Avenue, Greenler Street, and Sauers Avenue. Police did not immediately confirm the cause of the blast or any associated casualties. Unconfirmed reports indicate that a fire ignited at the facility following the explosion.
Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence around the refinery over the coming hours as they extinguish any remaining flames at the facility and carry out investigative work. Traffic disruptions will probably impact the vicinity of the refinery until emergency crews vacate the scene. Officials may issue evacuation orders to nearby residents on short notice.
Avoid the incident site until authorities issue the all-clear and vacate the vicinity. Allow additional travel time near the affected location; consider taking alternative routes to avoid the affected area and any disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.
