Deadly Blast Rocks Italian Hydroelectric Plant
At least three people have died and four remain missing after a massive explosion and fire tore through an underground hydroelectric power plant in northern Italy. The disaster struck on Tuesday afternoon at a dam on Lake Suviana, near the town of Bargi, close to Bologna.
Explosion Causes Collapse and Flooding
The blast happened around 3pm during scheduled maintenance, said the local fire brigade. The force of the explosion caused part of the nine-storey underground facility to collapse, sparking a fierce fire and flooding. Water levels inside the plant reportedly reached up to 60 metres (200 feet).
Casualties Confirmed, Rescue Efforts Underway
Francesco Notaro, regional fire chief, confirmed three fatalities so far. Four workers are still missing, and three others suffered serious injuries. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Evacuations and Emergency Response
The plant, owned by energy giant Enel, was quickly evacuated after the explosion. Enel is working closely with local fire and rescue teams to secure the site and continue search efforts amid challenging conditions.
Rescuers Battle Tough Terrain
Marco Masinara, mayor of nearby Camugnano, revealed the plant lies fully underground, about 30 metres (100 feet) below the lake’s surface. Maintenance was reportedly underway on a turbine when the explosion struck.
Emergency crews are fighting difficult access and dangerous flooding as they hunt for the missing and try to bring the disaster under control.
