Lightning Strike Ignites Massive Gas Explosion at UK Recycling Plant
A striking natural event, a lightning bolt, triggered a significant gas explosion in England. On Monday, the night sky was illuminated by a massive fireball that could be seen from miles away.
The incident unfolded when lightning made a direct hit on a gas tank at a food waste recycling facility located in Oxfordshire. The specific location was the Severn Trent Green Power Plant in Cassington, situated north of Oxford.
The lightning strike had an explosive impact, hitting a digester tank and causing one of the biogas tanks to erupt into flames. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the company swiftly collaborated with emergency services to ensure the site’s safety. The next step involves evaluating the extent of the damage.
Local authorities reported that the lightning strike created a large explosion at the food waste recycling plant, which specializes in converting food waste into biogas. Emergency responders, including multiple fire engines, police vehicles, and ambulances, rushed to the scene to address the situation.
Thames Valley Police shared via social media that the incident likely occurred when lightning struck gas containers at the site during adverse weather conditions.
Witnesses, like Jack Frowde, a 34-year-old employee at Oxford University, described the extraordinary event. He recounted how his kitchen was suddenly illuminated by a brilliant white light, immediately followed by a colossal thunderous noise. The sky pulsated in shades of orange, creating a surreal spectacle that lasted about 20 seconds.